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DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20260407
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20260408
DTSTAMP:20260603T011435
CREATED:20260526T080832Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260526T080905Z
UID:10000558-1775520000-1775606399@www.sprinklersaves.co.uk
SUMMARY:Benefits of sprinklers demonstrated following Edinburgh Recycling Fire
DESCRIPTION:Major\, expensive fires can often be avoided by using various fire prevention strategies. Automatic Water Suppression Systems (AWSS) are one effective approach\, as they can help contain\, control\, or sometimes even extinguish a building fire before the arrival of the Fire Rescue Service. (FRS) \nThis incident review illustrates that the integration of AWSS within a comprehensive fire safety strategy provides sustained protection for businesses by mitigating the impact of large-scale fires. Enhancing the resilience of buildings and business operations against fire damage is a critical component of effective risk management. \nThe Scottish Fire & Rescue Service (SFRS) report on an internal warehouse fire identifying that the implementation of the premises AWSS successfully contained\, controlled an internal fire. This approach minimizes financial losses and curtails the wider consequences associated with uncontrolled fires\, resulting in reduced costs for businesses and the broader economy \nThe Incident \n\nOn the 7 April 2026 at 08:15 hours\, 2 pumping appliances were mobilised to reports of a fire involving a recycling facility.\nThe incident commander established that the fire was within a warehouse 200m x 100m involving dry recycling material.\nThe building sprinkler system activated containing\, controlling the fire prior to the arrival of SFRS.\nThe fire was extinguished by firefighters using 1 jet.\nStop message was sent at 08:35\nEnquires are ongoing to establish the cause of the fire\n\nArea of focus \nFires in waste sites\, recycling centres are becoming more and more common with major incidents reported across the United Kingdom on a daily basis\, 1The National Fire Chiefs Council have reported that UK FRS attend around 300 significant fires in waste sites each year which are often difficult to extinguish requiring multiple FRS resources for significant periods of time which can have a serious impact on the local community in the short or long term\, including: \n\nThe Environmental Impact\nPublic health impacts on responders and communities\nLarge scale financial loses and disruption.\nRoad closures\nHigh demand on FRS and other agency resources\n\nFRS are fully aware of the environmental impacts of fire publishing sustainability\, environmental reports with further guidance published by the government on environmental protection\, providing further guidance for FRS on preventing and dealing with incidents with the potential to pollute. \nActive fire protection systems\, specifically AWSS should be seen as part of a holistic approach minimising fire damage as part of a greener approach from the fire sector\, which is currently overlooked. 2The Waste Industry Safety and Health Forum (WISH) published “Reducing Fire Risk at Waste Management Sites” good practice guidance on the latest research and information available to achieve good fire risk management which includes an appendix focusing on suppression/extinguishing/fighting systems focusing on \n\nImportance of seeking competent advice for the installation of a fire suppression system\nThe system should be proportionate to the nature and scale of waste management activities completed and associated risks.\nChoosing the appropriate fire suppression system which may include.\n\n\nSprinklers\nManual open deluge system\nDeluge/water spray systems\nMobile foam trolley\nWater monitors/cannons/curtains\n\n\n\n\nThe design\, installation and maintenance of the proposed system is covered by an appropriate UKAS-accredited third-party certification scheme.\nImportance of liaising with insurers who may have specific requirements for fire suppression systems.\n\nSources/further reading \n\nSprinkler Saves Review 2024/2025\nSprinkler Saves Spring update 2026\nNational Fire Sprinkler Network newsletter\n1Fire in waste sites National Operational Guidance Programme\n2Wish\, reducing fire risk at waste management sites\n\nEffective advocacy and policy lobbying require the collection of robust supporting evidence. If you have knowledge of a sprinkler incident that may contribute to this initiative\, please provide the pertinent details using the sprinkler activation reporting form available at www.sprinklersaves.co.uk
URL:https://www.sprinklersaves.co.uk/saves/benefits-of-sprinklers-demonstrated-following-edinburgh-recycling-fire/
LOCATION:Edinburgh
CATEGORIES:Industrial
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20260401T080000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20260430T170000
DTSTAMP:20260603T011435
CREATED:20260507T163030Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260508T073815Z
UID:10000553-1775030400-1777568400@www.sprinklersaves.co.uk
SUMMARY:Sprinklers extinguish fire in Herefordshire Cafe
DESCRIPTION:Summary \nIn April 2026\, a minor fire incident occurred at a café situated within a shopping centre in Herefordshire. The fire and rescue service were mobilised following notification of a confirmed fire by the alarm receiving centre. 35 years after staying dormant the building’s sprinkler system activated promptly\, containing\, controlling\, and extinguishing the fire within the affected compartment of origin before the arrival of the Fire and Rescue Service \nThe incident.  \n\nThe alarm was raised by the activation of the premises automatic fire detection system shortly followed by the activation of the building sprinkler system.\nOn arrival the incident commander identified.\n\n\nSmoke logging present within the premises retail unit.\nThe fire had been extinguished by the activation of one sprinkler head located above the seat of the fire.\n\n\nFirefighters wearing breathing apparatus were deployed to conduct salvage operations\, managing water discharge from the activated sprinkler head until the isolation valve was isolated.\n\n\nIsolating the flow of water discharged from the sprinkler head using a salvage sheet.\nEnquiries are ongoing to identify the cause of the fire.\n\nThis event highlights and further emphasizes the advantages of sprinklers for UK businesses \n\nPrevents major financial and equipment losses.\nOffer business owners technology which reduces risk to life and degree of damage caused in the event of a fire.\nIncrease resilience to fire incidents controlling/extinguishing a fire before the arrival of the FRS.\nReduce the impact from fire on business allowing the business to be back up and running within a short period of time.\n\nImportance of Management \n\nIt Is paramount ensuring the premises fire safety systems are operable in the event of a fire including sprinklers\, fire alarm system\, dry/wet risers\, smoke extraction units and fire curtains.\nTo highlight this\, London Fire Brigade published an open letter in 2020\, to those responsible for fire safety in shopping centres. Highlighting the importance of maintaining fire safety systems including the premises sprinkler system\n\n Conclusion  \n\nThis incident illustrates the proven effectiveness of automatic fire sprinklers in containing and controlling fires\, limiting fire growth\, and\, in this case\, extinguishing the fire before the arrival of the fire service preventing fire spread beyond the compartment of origin compromising other businesses.\nDemonstrating the benefits of sprinklers for firefighter safety\, business continuity.\n\nFor change\, increasing the presence of sprinklers in the built environment we need the evidence\, to conduct effective advocacy and policy lobbying. \n\nIf you have knowledge of a sprinkler incident that may contribute to this initiative\, please provide the pertinent details using the sprinkler activation reporting form available at www.sprinklersaves.co.uk.\nMy thanks to Hereford and Worcester Fire and Rescue Service for reporting this incident\, it makes a difference.\n\nFurther guidance \n\nBAFSA\, Sprinkler Saves Annual Review\nLFB; Open letter to shopping centre managers\nSprinklers ensure resilience for business (Government Business)\nHereford and Worcester Fire and Rescue Service Sprinklers\n\n 
URL:https://www.sprinklersaves.co.uk/saves/sprinklers-extinguish-fire-in-herefordshire-cafe/
LOCATION:Herefordshire
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20260312
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20260313
DTSTAMP:20260603T011435
CREATED:20260512T162651Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260512T163032Z
UID:10000556-1773273600-1773359999@www.sprinklersaves.co.uk
SUMMARY:Benefits of sprinklers demonstrated following waste recycling fire
DESCRIPTION:Introduction \nMajor\, expensive fires can often be avoided by using various fire prevention strategies. Automatic Water Suppression Systems (AWSS) are one effective approach\, as they can help contain\, control\, or sometimes even extinguish a building fire before the Fire Rescue Service (FRS) arrives. This incident review illustrates that the integration of AWSS within a comprehensive fire safety strategy provides sustained protection for businesses by mitigating the impact of large-scale fires. Enhancing the resilience of buildings and business operations against fire damage is a critical component of effective risk management. \nThe Scottish Fire & Rescue Service (SFRS) report on an internal warehouse fire highlights that the implementation of an Automatic Water Suppression System (AWSS) can successfully control internal fires. This approach minimizes financial losses and curtails the wider consequences associated with uncontrolled fires\, resulting in reduced costs for businesses and the broader economy. \nThe premises \n\nSingle storey steel framed sandwich panel warehouse\nUse waste recycling\n120m x 115m\n\n The incident  \n\nOn 12 March 2026 at 08:16\, SFRS responded to a fire at a waste recycling centre in Forth.\nOn arrival the incident commander identified that the fire was in the ground floor loading bay containing waste recycling\nSuppressed by the activation of the building sprinkler system.\n23 pumping appliances\, 1 aerial ladder platform were required to contain\, control and extinguish the fire.\n\nBenefits of the building sprinkler system \nAllowed the incident commander valuable time to complete an operational tactical action plan. \n\nAllowing firefighters to establish a water supply allowing the fire to be extinguished using firefighting media including branch\, ground monitors.\nPreventing the fire from spreading within the building damaging further internal plant\, machinery\, compromising further waste material.\n\nConclusion \nThis incident provides further evidence of the benefits of AWSS as part of a package of fire safety measures. \n\nPreventing major financial and equipment losses for businesses.\nProtecting critical elements of its operation\,\nProviding valuable time for FRS to implement an operational tactical action plan to extinguish the fire.\nProtecting firefighters\n\nIf it was not for the sprinkler system\, we could be reporting on a further industrial fire where the premises was lost to fire with the business facing an uncertain future. \nThe Business Sprinkler Alliance report that in the year 2021/22 the FRS attended a total of 1\,842 industrial fires\, fires do not discriminate whether it is a factory\, car park\, warehouse of office fires happen on a regular basis and will continue to do so in the future. \nFires are indiscriminate\, occurring in various settings such as railway stations\, factories\, car parks\, warehouses\, and offices. They are a recurring occurrence and will likely continue to do so in the future. \nRegardless of the cause or the building\, systems like sprinklers can contain and extinguish fires\, safeguarding lives and businesses during critical times when they are most needed. \nSources/Further Reading.  \n\nScottish Fire & Rescue Service Sprinklers\nBAFSA Sprinkler Saves Review 2024/2025\nBAFSA Sprinkler Saves Spring update\nNFSN Winter newsletter\nBusiness Sprinkler Alliance\n\nIf you want to make a difference working in the fire sector\, we need your assistance \n\nTo make sprinklers the norm and not the exception – we need the evidence.\nEncouraging FRS and those in the sprinkler community to promote\, collate\, report sprinkler activations to Sprinkler Saves UK which will help to create a central and comprehensive record of fire incidents where sprinklers played their role in containing/controlling or extinguishing the fire.\nThe outcome of which will influence policy makers in government for change advocating the use of AWSS in all buildings\, we are concerned about.\n\nIf you hear of a save report it using this link.
URL:https://www.sprinklersaves.co.uk/saves/benefits-of-sprinklers-demonstrated-following-waste-recycling-fire/
LOCATION:Forth
CATEGORIES:Home
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20260310
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20260311
DTSTAMP:20260603T011435
CREATED:20260518T171124Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260518T171149Z
UID:10000557-1773100800-1773187199@www.sprinklersaves.co.uk
SUMMARY:Edinburgh student cluster flat kitchen fire
DESCRIPTION:Summary  \n\nAt 17:53 on Wednesday\, 10 March 2026\, Scottish Fire and Rescue Service Fire Service responded to a kitchen fire within a 4-floor studio flat of a purpose built student accommodation building.\nThe building’s fire alarm/sprinkler system was activated raising the alarm\nThe fire was contained and controlled by the activation of 1 concealed sprinkler head\, which originated from a small pot of oil on the hob.\nFirefighters equipped with breathing apparatus extinguished the fire using firefighting media.\nFire damage was minimal with scorch burn marks to the kitchen splash back.\nThe incident stop message was confirmed at 18:22\nNo injuries were reported\n\nA sprinkler activation is categorised as an event where one or more sprinkler heads have activated and contained\, controlled\, or\, in some cases\, extinguished a building fire. This incident provides further evidence of the effectiveness\, benefits of sprinklers as part of a comprehensive fire safety strategy. \nRaising awareness of how the destructive effects of fire can be mitigated\, and in most cases\, be prevented through the enhanced use of sprinklers\, and other forms of Automatic Water Suppresion (AWSS) Which save lives\, protect firefighters\, homes and businesses as part of an appropriate package of fire safety measures. \nEmbracing the call from the National Fire Chiefs Council (NFCC) who actively encourage fire services to collate\, promote case studies to Sprinkler Saves UK to promote the effectiveness of sprinklers in operating and controlling and in some cases extinguishing the fire. \nThe outcome of which will continue to promote a better understanding of the benefits of AFSS in the wider community\, fire safety sector in general as an effective and reliable fire protection measure as part of a package of fire safety measures protecting life and property from fire. \nProviding further evidence as part of our campaign driving change so AWSS are understood and accepted as the norm and not the exception\, the outcome of which will. \n\nInfluence policy makers to strengthen AWSS requirements\, England’s sprinkler fire safety regulations trail behind its neighbours in other jurisdictions where governments have set lower mandatory thresholds for the installation of sprinklers.\nEntice housing provider stakeholders and\, others to install sprinklers as part of a package of fire safety measures providing a further layer of protection from fire for our communities.\n\nStudent accommodation \nStudent accommodation Is undoubtedly a challenging environment from a fire safety perspective with their own individual challenges. The student’s lifestyle is typically associated with a reduced level of caution when it comes to appreciating risk. \nThe dangers of student accommodation were demonstrated following the fire in Bolton involving the premises known as the ‘Cube’ on 15 November 2019. The Cube incident report completed by Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service identifies\, the speed of which the fire took hold and the devastating impact it had on the building was shocking\, two residents were trapped by heat and smoke and required to be rescued by firefighters\, sprinklers were not fitted. \nLegislation \nRegulatory guidance for England includes a specific requirement to install sprinklers in purpose group 1a (residential block of flats) with a top floor height of 11 metres above ground level this guidance does not apply to student halls of residence regardless of height. \nEngland’s national building and fire safety regulations trail behind its neighbours\, governments in other UK jurisdictions who have set lower mandatory thresholds for the installation of sprinklers in new purpose-built student accommodation. \nFollowing the introduction of new fire regulations within Northern Ireland\, fire sprinklers are now required in within student accommodation with a storey more than 11m above ground level which will came into effect on 6 May 2025 \nIt is the view of the BAFSA and the 1NFCC that sprinklers should be installed in all new student accommodation regardless of height\, as well as existing buildings undergoing refurbishment. The Government should be looking to emulate the policies in the devolved governments to support unitary policy across nations by lowering or removing the acceptable height\, floor area\, or occupancy threshold dependent on building type. \nConclusion \nThis incident highlights the value of residential sprinkler systems in student accommodation. In this case\, the system: \n\nProvided support to firefighters reducing fire growth.\nControlling the fire in its early stages\, reducing contribution to fire spread made by combustible construction materials.\nProvided valuable time for the occupiers to self-evacuate from the dwelling to a place of safety.\nPrevented conflagration.\nAllowed prompt incident resolution and earlier release of resources\, supporting continued emergency response\n\nThis incident illustrates that sprinklers are integral to a thorough fire safety strategy\, protecting lives\, firefighters\, property\, and the environment. It also strengthens ongoing advocacy efforts by the NFCC and stakeholders within the fire sector for more rigorous government regulations regarding the installation of AWSS in the built environment. \nSources/further reading \n\nSprinkler Saves Review 2024/2025\nSprinkler Saves spring update 2026\n1National Fire Chiefs Council (NFCC) sprinkler position statement\nThe Cube Incident report and key observations\nNational Fire Sprinkler Network newsletter\n\nEffective advocacy and policy lobbying require the collection of robust supporting evidence. If you have knowledge of a sprinkler incident that may contribute to this initiative\, please provide the pertinent details using the sprinkler activation reporting form available at www.sprinklersaves.co.uk.
URL:https://www.sprinklersaves.co.uk/saves/edinburgh-student-cluster-flat-kitchen-fire/
CATEGORIES:Residential
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20260301T080000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20260301T170000
DTSTAMP:20260603T011435
CREATED:20260513T054710Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260513T054710Z
UID:10000554-1772352000-1772384400@www.sprinklersaves.co.uk
SUMMARY:Sprinklers extinguish house fire in Dumfries
DESCRIPTION:Summary \n\nIn March 2026\, a kitchen fire in a housing estate in Dumfries was swiftly controlled and extinguished.\nBy the activation of the building sprinkler system\, this was achieved by the activation of a concealed sprinkler head in the affected room of origin before the Fire and Rescue Service arrived.\nThankfully\, no injuries were reported.\n\nObservations \n\nThe photographs show light smoke staining in the kitchen on the wall cupboards\, ceiling with no visible fire damage in the vicinity of the electric cooker or the chip pan located on the kitchen worktop.\nOnce confirmation was received that the fire had been extinguished\, the Fire and Rescue Service isolated the sprinkler isolation valve located in the kitchen base unit cupboard beneath the sink.\nSprinkler system BS9251 category 1\, supplied by a boosted domestic water main serving the social housing on the estate. Inhouse protocols allowed the housing association to reinstate the system using an inhouse maintenance team with minimal delay.\n\nLegislation \nThe BAFSA welcomed the Scottish governments action to initiate legislation to require for all new build social homes\, flats and shared multi-occupied residential buildings to be fitted with AWSS from March 2021. Without such legislation the outcome of this incident could have been so different. \nFor change\, increasing the presence of sprinklers in the built environment we need the evidence\, to conduct effective advocacy and policy lobbying. If you have knowledge of a sprinkler incident that may contribute to this initiative\, please provide the pertinent details using the sprinkler activation reporting form available at www.sprinklersaves.co.uk. \nMy thanks to DDS Sprinklers Scotland Ltd for reporting this incident\, it makes a difference. \nFurther guidance \n\nBAFSA\, Sprinkler Saves Annual Review\nSprinkler saves Spring update\nNational Fire Sprinkler Network winter newsletter
URL:https://www.sprinklersaves.co.uk/saves/sprinklers-extinguish-house-fire-in-dumfries/
LOCATION:Dumfries
CATEGORIES:Home
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20260213
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20260214
DTSTAMP:20260603T011435
CREATED:20260217T142413Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260217T142413Z
UID:10000552-1770940800-1771027199@www.sprinklersaves.co.uk
SUMMARY:Sprinkler system controls Portsmouth e-bike high-rise Fire
DESCRIPTION:Matt Rowe\, fire safety station manager\, “This incident once again\, showed the dangers of charging electronic bikes/scooters inside but highlighted the benefits of a fully functioning sprinkler system installed for life safety. This system kept the fire in check until the fire service arrived and allowed crews to work in a safer environment\, knowing the fire would be limited in size reducing the risk of entering the compartment to fully extinguish the fire. HIWFRS continue to promote the installation of sprinklers for both life and property safety and this incident could have been a lot different without this early suppression system in place” \n Summary \nOn the 13 February 2026\, HIWFRS were mobilised to a e-bike fire on the tenth floor of a 12-storey tall rise building in Portsmouth. The fire involving a charging e-bike was contained\, following the activation of the building’s sprinkler system. The benefit of which allowed firefighters to work in a safer environment to extinguish the fire. Four casualties were treated for smoke inhalation by South Central Ambulance Service\, released at the scene. \nA comparable incident was reported by West Midland Fire Rescue Service (WMFRS) in April 2023. In this instance\, a lithium-ion battery for an e-bicycle\, left charging in the hallway of a flat within a residential apartment block\, ignited and compromised the designated escape routes.The building’s retrofitted sprinkler system promptly activated\, containing\, controlling\, and extinguishing the fire through the activation of a single sprinkler head. The occupants sought refuge on their balcony until they were safely rescued by firefighters. \nA West Midlands mum stated her partner and her young son owe their lives to a sprinkler system\, she is quoted as saying in a WMFRS media release \n“We couldn’t get out. We were on the tenth floor. It was too high. I can tell you for sure that the sprinklers saved our lives. It is brilliant they were installed in the first place.” \nIncidents involving lithium-ion fires are becoming more common\, 1LFB reported a record number of fires involving e-bike and e-scooter fires across London in 2025 with more than 200 fires attended by firefighters across the capital.Since 2023\, five fatalities in London have been linked to fires involving e-bikes and e-scooters. Sprinkler systems play a crucial role in reducing the rate of heat and smoke\, providing more time for the occupants to escape to safety or be rescued by the FRS.Without the presence of sprinklers as part of a package of fire safety measures\, these incidents may have had a much more severe consequence for the occupants. \nThe Incident  \n\nHIWFRS responded to a fire in a former office building\, now converted into residential units\, after a remote monitoring station sent an alert following the activation of the sprinkler system.\nOn arrival\, the incident commander completed a dynamic risk assessment\, identifying the presence of a sprinkler system\, and established a tactical plan tailored for high-rise operations to extinguish the fire.\nFirefighters wearing breathing apparatus were committed to the tackle the fire within a dwelling on the tenth floor.\nUpon entry\, it was established that the fire within the hallway had been suppressed by the activation of 1 sprinkler head located nearest to the seat of the fire involving a e-bike on charge.\nThe fire was extinguished by firefighters using firefighting media via the premises dry rising main.\nAfter confirming that the fire was fully extinguished\, firefighters proceeded to isolate the dwellings sprinkler isolation valve.\nFire\, smoke damage was contained\, controlled to the dwelling.\nFour residents sustained minor injuries for smoke inhalation.\n\n Conclusion \nThis incident reinforces the benefits of sprinklers playing a significant role as part of a package of fire safety measures\, reducing the impact of fire on people\, firefighters\, property and the environment. Despite sprinkler protection of lithium batteries being outside the scope of current sprinkler design standards\, these incident(s) demonstrates that a sprinkler system can contain\, control a e-bike/scooter lithium battery fire. \nProviding further weight to the reliability and effectiveness of Automatic Water Suppression Systems (AWSS) following the report conducted by ²Optimal Economics\, and commissioned by the National Fire Chiefs Council\, National Fire Sprinkler Network into the performance\, reliability\, and effectiveness of sprinkler systems in controlling and extinguishing fires. \nRevealed that across all premises types: – \n\nSprinklers are 99% efficient in extinguishing or controlling a fire.\nSprinklers are 94% efficient in their ability to operate.\n\nIt is important to acknowledge that the sprinkler system contributed significantly to the effective resolution of this incident. \n\nPreventing flash over\, reducing the rate of production of heat and smoke to the compartment of origin\, limiting fire growth\, suppressing the fire.\nLimited the development of the fire to the item first ignited.\nPrevented conflagration.\nProvided confidence to firefighters to deal with the incident\, due to the presence of the sprinkler system allowing valuable time for a dynamic risk assessment\, tactical plan to be actioned\, implemented.\nIdentified the importance of active fire protection systems minimising fire-related risks.\nAllowed prompt incident resolution and earlier release of resources\, supporting continued emergency response and giving crews greater confidence when tackling fires in sprinkler protected buildings\nWater egress was reported following the activation of the sprinkler system for context modern sprinklers release 45 litres of water per minute\, compared to 700-4000 litres per minute discharged by fire service hoses/jets.\n\nThis incident provides further supporting evidence of the benefits of AWSS to under pin the British Automatic Fire Sprinkler Association’s (BAFSA) advocacy\, turning operational evidence into persuasive tools for policy and parliamentary engagement. Supporting our campaign to increase the presence of AWSS within the built environment by highlighting real life\, tangible examples of where AWSS were present and had an impact. As such\, each of these stories provides powerful evidence of the ability of AWSS protecting our communities from fire. \nEffective advocacy and policy lobbying \nRequire the collection of robust supporting evidence. If you have knowledge of a sprinkler incident that may contribute to this initiative\, please provide the pertinent details using the sprinkler activation reporting form available at www.sprinklersaves.co.uk. \nReferences\, Sources \n\n1Record number of e-bike and e-scooter fires across London in 2025\n2Optimal economics report Efficiency and Effectiveness of sprinkler systems in the Uk; An analysis from fire service data\nHampshire & Isle of Wight Fire & rescue Service press release\nSprinkler Saves Review 2024/2025\nSprinkler Saves Winter Update\nNational Fire Sprinkler Network Newsletter\nNational Fire Chiefs Council AWSS Position Statement\n\n\n       
URL:https://www.sprinklersaves.co.uk/saves/sprinkler-system-controls-portsmouth-e-bike-high-rise-fire/
LOCATION:Portsmouth
CATEGORIES:Residential
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20260120
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20260121
DTSTAMP:20260603T011435
CREATED:20260120T070816Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260123T060307Z
UID:10000548-1768867200-1768953599@www.sprinklersaves.co.uk
SUMMARY:London Primary School Sprinkler Activation
DESCRIPTION:Summary  \nOn 23 August 2025\, London Fire Brigade responded to six emergency calls reporting a fire at a primary school. Fire crews from nearby stations were dispatched at 00:08 hours. Upon arrival\, the incident commander identified a fire located on the third floor of the building\, impacting a constructed timber-framed extension located on the school’s green roof. One sprinkler head activated on the floor of origin\, working in unison with fire crews to contain\, control the fire. The fire was extinguished by firefighters using jets\, 50% of the extension was damaged by fire. \nThe fire is being treated as accidental\, with investigations indicating that it was likely caused by hot works carried out during construction activities on the extension earlier that day resulting in a concealed fire within the fabric of the building\, no injuries were reported. A sprinkler activation is categorised as an event where one or more sprinkler heads have activated and contained\, controlled\, or\, in some cases\, extinguished a building fire. This incident provides further evidence of the effectiveness\, benefits of sprinklers as part of a comprehensive fire safety strategy. \nWhen you read real life tangible examples of where fire sprinklers have actuated containing\, controlling or even in some cases extinguishing school fires\, you ask yourself why sprinklers are still not mandatory for newly constructed school buildings in England with the benefits they bring protecting: – \n\nThe school\, in terms of life safety/property.\nThe environment reducing Co2 emissions.\nStudents course work\, teachers teaching aids\, resources\nVital local community resource.\n\nWorking with the National Fire Chiefs Council\, (NFCC) the National Fire Sprinkler Network\, and our Automatic Water Suppression System (AWSS) colleagues we gather evidence of these incidents as a valuable tool highlighting the benefits of AWSS providing vital evidence of the reliability and effectiveness of AWSS adding further weight to the report conducted by 1Optimal economics into the performance\, reliability and effectiveness of AWSS. \nProviding further evidence supporting our long-standing campaign to increase the presence of sprinklers within the built environment by highlighting real life tangible examples of where AWSS were present and had an impact. As such\, each of these stories provide powerful evidence of the ability of AWSS protecting our communities from fire. The outcome of which will influence policymakers to implement change\, \nParameters of the sprinkler system \nThe objective of the AWSS is to detect a fire in its early stages and extinguish it over the affected area of the floor with water in the room of origin\, or to contain the fire so that it can be effectively extinguished by other means. For this incident\, the concealment of the fire allowed it to develop and spread unnoticed for an undetermined period\, ultimately resulting in the emergence of the fire. The consequences of this event had the potential to exceed the systems design and operational parameters. Nevertheless\, one sprinkler head activated on the floor of origin contributing to containing the fire preventing further fire spread. \nLegislation \nThe installation of AWSS It is a requirement in Scotland and a condition of government funding in Wales\, but despite the rising number of school fires since the lockdowns of 22020/21 there is no requirement in England or Northern Ireland for the installation of sprinklers in schools.The NFCC report that in May 2021\, the government announced a proposal to make the installation of sprinklers mandatory in new schools over 11m in height\, However\, given that only a few schools currently meet this threshold\, the benefits of this proposal are likely to be limited. When replying to the consultation on these proposals\, the NFCC was clear that their strongly held belief is that they constitute a lessening of standards from previous guidance. \nThe original guidance\, when first released in 2007\, acknowledged the important role of sprinklers and stated that “all new schools should have fire sprinklers installed except in a few low-risk schools.” The proposed changes in the guidance are a retrograde step and represent a real lessening of standards in this area. Now approaching over 4 years since the government first consulted on a revised version of Building Bulletin 100: design for fire safety in schools\, we are still waiting for a decision to be announced. \nMyths & Misconceptions \nIt is disappointing to read a council news press release referencing that the whole building suffered water damage\, primarily due to the sprinklers being activated contributing to the site being unusable\, for context jets were deployed by LFB to extinguish the fire with only 1 sprinkler head activating. In comparison water damage from a fire sprinkler system will be far less severe than the damage caused by water from firefighter jets/hoses. Modern sprinklers operate very quickly to release 45 – 200 litres of water per minute\, compared to 700 – 4000 litres per minute discharged by fire service hoses and jets. \nBusiness Recovery Plan \nFirefighters are increasingly likely to respond to incidents in buildings equipped with sprinkler systems\, it is therefore critical for building managers and duty holders to integrate an effective business recovery plan into the premises’ emergency protocols. The benefit of which will allow the fire service to efficiently manage water following sprinkler system activation during a fire or in the rare event of accidental discharge\, thereby mitigating potential disruptions to business operations or occupancy. \nConclusion \n\nThe sprinkler system contributed to preventing conflagration of the school building\, protecting a valuable community resource.\nThe importance of an onsite business recovery plan for firefighters to respond to incidents in buildings equipped with sprinkler systems to manage the release of water.\nThe installation of sprinklers in news schools in England should be made mandatory regardless of height.\nProviding further supporting evidence to under pin BAFSA’s advocacy\, turning operational evidence into persuasive tools for policy and parliamentary engagement\, and reinforcing the case for wider sprinkler inclusion within national building policy.\n\nLobbying for change \nEffective advocacy and policy lobbying require the collection of robust supporting evidence. If you have knowledge of a sprinkler incident that may contribute to this initiative\, please provide the pertinent details using the sprinkler activation reporting form available at www.sprinklersaves.co.uk. \nSources/further reading \n\n2Incident statistics for England in primary /secondary and other educational establishments\nSprinkler Saves Review 2024/2025\nSprinkler Saves winter update\nNational Fire Chiefs Council (NFCC) sprinkler position statement\nPress release LFB\, fire at school Streatham\nBAFSA guide for ‘responsible persons’ in sprinklered buildings
URL:https://www.sprinklersaves.co.uk/saves/london-primary-school-sprinkler-activation/
LOCATION:London
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END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20260114
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20260115
DTSTAMP:20260603T011435
CREATED:20260512T142313Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260512T143038Z
UID:10000555-1768348800-1768435199@www.sprinklersaves.co.uk
SUMMARY:Halifax dwelling chip pan fire extinguished by building sprinkler system
DESCRIPTION:Image credit BAFSA chip pan demonstration\n\nWest Yorkshire Fire Rescue Service reported a kitchen fire occurring within a residential flat on the 13th floor of a 16-storey residential block.\nThe fire was successfully extinguished following the activation of the retrofitted sprinkler system.\nFirefighters evacuated the 13th floor due to smoke logging; a high-pressure fan was used to ventilate the area allowing the smoke to be dispersed.\nOne person with smoke inhalation was taken by Yorkshire Ambulance Service.\n\nThis incident once again\, debunks the myth\, residential sprinklers as an extinguishing media should not be used on chip pan fires \n\nIn England cooking fires are the most common type of accidental fire reported for the period 2013/2014 to 2022/2023 with over 1100 fires.\nWe still see reports from the Fire Rescue Service (FRS) that where the occupant is present at the time of a chip pan fire\, they have tried to extinguish the fire themselves by placing the oil pan under the tap in the kitchen sink or throw water on the pan causing the oil to explode causing serious injury allowing further fire to spread.\n\nSprinkler Saves UK have reported multiple incidents involving chip pan fires on each occasion the fire was extinguished\, contained\, or controlled. \n\nLincoln\, 7 August 2021\nTonypandy\, Rhondda\, 29 December 2021\nFlint 3 June 2021\nSouth Yorkshire 26 August 2022\nLondon 21 August 2023\nNewport July 2024\nStockport 26 July 2024\n\nSource \n\nWest Yorkshire Fire & Rescue Service press release\nBAFSA Sprinkler Saves Review 2024/2025\nBAFSA Sprinkler Saves  Winter Newsletter update\nNFSN Winter newsletter\nBAFSA video demonstrating the benefits of sprinklers for chip pan fires\n\n 
URL:https://www.sprinklersaves.co.uk/saves/halifax-dwelling-chip-pan-fire-extinguished-by-building-sprinkler-system/
LOCATION:Halifax
CATEGORIES:Residential
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END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20251101T080000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20251130T170000
DTSTAMP:20260603T011435
CREATED:20260212T185234Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260512T163052Z
UID:10000551-1761984000-1764522000@www.sprinklersaves.co.uk
SUMMARY:Water Mist Activation Extinguishes Scotland Residential High-Rise Fire
DESCRIPTION: 1Stuart Stevens\, Scottish Fire and Rescue Service Chief Officer\, said: \n“The Scottish Fire and Rescue Service welcome the amended regulations and the increased provision of automatic fire suppression systems. This provision is a significant step forward in fire safety and will increase the safety of our communities\, residents and firefighters.” \nSummary \nIn November 2025\, the Scottish Fire Rescue Service (SFRS) responded to a fire in a second-floor flat of a 11-storey high-rise residential building. The fire involving a chip pan was contained and extinguished before the arrival of SFRS following the activation of the building’s water mist system. Two residents sustained minor injuries. \nThe British Automatic Fire Sprinkler Association (BAFSA) welcomed the Scottish Government decision in 2020 requiring all new build social homes\, flats\, and shared multi-occupied residential buildings in Scotland to be fitted with Automatic Fire Suppression Systems (AFSS) from March 2021. Previously\, this was only required in new purpose-built block of flats above 18m. Nevertheless\, concerns persist regarding the lack of requirements to retrofit existing residential buildings with sprinklers. \nThis incident provides further supporting evidence of the benefits of AFSS to under pin the British Automatic Fire Sprinkler Association’s (BAFSA) advocacy\, turning operational evidence into persuasive tools for policy and parliamentary engagement\, and reinforcing the case for the retrofitting of sprinklers systems in high-rise residential blocks of flats. \nSupporting our campaign to increase the presence of AWSS within the built environment by highlighting real life\, tangible examples of where AWSS were present and had an impact. As such\, each of these stories provides powerful evidence of the ability of AWSS protecting our communities from fire. \nThe Incident  \n\nA fire originated in the kitchen as a result of a chip pan containing cooking oil.\nUpon entry to the flat\, firefighters established that the fire had been controlled\, contained\, and extinguished by the activation of 1 nozzle head.\nTotal property area damaged by fire was reported to be under 5M2 with post fire ventilation completed by SFRS.\nTwo residents sustained minor injuries.\nMinor water egress was reported effecting the flat of origin and premises below the fire requiring the premises electrics to be made safe.\n\nConclusion \nThis incident reinforces the benefits of AWSS\, in this case water mist which can be used as a form of suppression in buildings where there is an appropriate test protocol in accordance with the relevant standard. Playing a significant role as part of a package of fire safety measures\, reducing the impact of fire on people\, firefighters\, property and the environment. Sprinkler Saves UK promotes the reporting of all types of fire suppression systems. \nIt is noteworthy to learn about the effective activation of a water mist system which successfully achieved its intended functional objectives. \n\nReducing the rate of production of heat and smoke limiting fire growth and ultimately extinguishing the fire.\nLimited the development of the fire to the room of origin.\n\nIf it was for the decision by North Ayrshire Council’s decision to upgrade and retrofit an Automatic Fire Suppression System (AFSS) in this building the outcome of this could have been so much different. \nBAFSA has published a2guide which provides detailed information on the types of water mist systems available\, how they can be used and how to choose the most appropriate one for the selected application. \nWatermist and sprinkler system-a look at the trends \nThe 3Sprinklers Saves Review 2024/2025\, references an article analysing AWSS trends. The report provides insight into the prevalence of AWSS across the country stock by examining primary fire data that recorded the presence and impact of 1764 incidents involving sprinklers\, water mist for the period 2018/19 through 2023/24. \nFor dwelling fires\, the data highlighted that the overall trend for water mist is flat with 49 activations over the six-year period compared to sprinklers with 619. \nEffective advocacy and policy lobbying \nRequire the collection of robust supporting evidence. If you have knowledge of a sprinkler incident that may contribute to this initiative\, please provide the pertinent details using the sprinkler activation reporting form available at www.sprinklersaves.co.uk. \nReferences\, Sources \n\n1Scottish Government News\, Improved fire safety for new flats and social homes.\n2Water Mist Technical Guide\n3Sprinkler Saves Review 2024/2025\nSprinkler Saves Winter Update\nScottish Fire Rescue Service\, Fire Sprinkler Systems\nNational Fire Chiefs Council AWSS Position Statement\nNational Fire Sprinkler Network Winter Newsletter \n\n             
URL:https://www.sprinklersaves.co.uk/saves/water-mist-activation-extinguishes-scotland-residential-high-rise-fire/
LOCATION:Scotland
CATEGORIES:Domestic
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END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20251101T080000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20251130T170000
DTSTAMP:20260603T011435
CREATED:20260205T161235Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260217T123859Z
UID:10000550-1761984000-1764522000@www.sprinklersaves.co.uk
SUMMARY:Sprinkler system contains hot cooking fire in London residential tall building
DESCRIPTION:Image credit tptfire\n Background \nThe benefits of installing Automatic Fire Suppression Systems (AFSS) were demonstrated following a fire in a London high-rise residential block of flats. The building sprinkler system activated\, thereby containing\, controlling the kitchen fire involving hot cooking oil. There were no reports of any injuries. \nDemonstrating the effectiveness of sprinklers in controlling fires at an early stage\, significantly reducing the risk to life\, limiting fire spread and minimising property damage\, preventing the fire from spreading further preventing flash over allowing a positive outcome. \nA sprinkler activation is categorised as an event where one or more sprinkler heads have activated and contained\, controlled\, or\, in some cases\, extinguished a building fire. This incident provides further evidence of the effectiveness\, benefits of sprinklers as part of a comprehensive fire safety strategy. \nProviding further weight to the reliability and effectiveness of sprinkler systems following the report conducted by 1Optimal Economics and commissioned by the National Fire Chiefs Council (NFCC)\, National Fire Sprinkler Network into the performance\, reliability\, and effectiveness of sprinkler systems in controlling and extinguishing fires. \nThe Incident \nA fire that started in the kitchen of an open plan kitchen/lounge flat on the third floor of a 17-storey block of flats was effectively contained\, controlled by the activation of two sprinkler heads. One person left the building before the arrival of the London Fire Brigade. The fire is believed to have been accidental and caused by cooking oil igniting in a pan. \nThe activated concealed sprinkler head nearest to the fire is visible in the image\, the rise in temperature at ceiling level allowed the cover plate to disengage releasing the deflector plate from its housing\, the continued heating of the exposed sprinkler caused the heat sensitive liquid in the glass bulb to expand causing the glass to shatter releasing the plug. Allowing the water to be released to strike the deflector\, forming a uniform spray pattern over the fire\, two heads activated. \n       \nImage credit tptfire\nThe cooking extractor fan directly above the seat of the fire was 100% damaged by fire\, with smoke staining visible at ceiling level\, wall units. A distinctive circular water spray pattern is visible in proximity of the sprinkler head preventing the smoke jets staining the ceiling. Following the confirmation the fire was all out\, the sprinkler system was isolated by LFB for the individual flat. \nSpecification of the sprinkler system  \n\nInstalled to comply with BS 9251\, Fire Sprinkler Systems for Domestic and Residential Occupancies – Code of Practice.\nWater supply shared cold-water booster main.\n\nConclusion  \nThis incident provides further supporting evidence of the benefits of sprinklers to under pin the British Automatic Fire Sprinkler Association’s (BAFSA) advocacy\, turning operational evidence into persuasive tools for policy and parliamentary engagement. We welcomed the government’s November 2020 decision to lower the height threshold for mandatory sprinklers in purpose group 1a (residential blocks of flats) from 30 metres to 11 metres. Nevertheless\, concerns persist regarding the lack of requirements to retrofit existing residential buildings with sprinklers. \nIn alignment with the 2NFCC sprinkler position statement\, The BAFSA advocate for government action to mandate the retrofitting of sprinklers in high-rise residential buildings. Retrofitting should apply to all existing residential buildings over 18 metres in height\, or those with at least seven storeys served by a single staircase\, as well as all existing residential buildings exceeding 11 metres\, based on risk assessments. \nThe outcome of this fire could have been so different if the building had not been fitted with a sprinkler system. \nSources/further reading \n\nSprinkler saves review 2024/2025\nSprinkler Saves winter review\nNFSN Newsletter\n1Efficiency and Effectiveness of sprinkler systems in the United Kingdom:An Analysis from Fire Service Data\n2NFCC AWSS Policy Statement\n\nIf you want to make a difference working in the fire sector\, we need your assistance. To make sprinklers the norm and not the exception – we need the evidence. Encouraging FRS and those in the sprinkler community to promote\, collate\, report sprinkler activations to Sprinkler Saves UK which will help to create a central and comprehensive record of fire incidents where sprinklers played their role in containing/controlling or extinguishing the fire. \nIf you hear of a save report it using this link. \n           
URL:https://www.sprinklersaves.co.uk/saves/sprinkler-system-contains-hot-cooking-fire-in-london-residential-tall-building/
LOCATION:London
CATEGORIES:Residential
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END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20251101T080000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20251130T170000
DTSTAMP:20260603T011435
CREATED:20251130T193334Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260129T114636Z
UID:10000541-1761984000-1764522000@www.sprinklersaves.co.uk
SUMMARY:Scotland Fulfilment Centre Saved By Sprinklers
DESCRIPTION:Summary \nScottish Fire and Rescue Service (SFRS) reported a fire within a fulfilment warehouse about the size of 14 football pitches (93\,000 square metres) involving a multi-tiered mezzanine structure. The fire was able to develop through openings in the structure\, leading to a limited number of sprinklers operating on each level to control the fire. which was contained and controlled by the activation of the in-rack type automatic water suppression system. (AWSS) No injuries were reported. \nThe risks posed by these types of fires to firefighters should not be underestimated\, as they often involve high storage density. This can lead to fires of such magnitude that it becomes impossible for firefighters to access the area and perform manual firefighting operations. \nResearch conducted by the National Fire Chiefs Council (NFCC) identifies that for firefighters to safely perform rescues from large storage warehouses a threshold limit of 4\,000m2 is the limit to perform effective rescue. Demonstrating that the current threshold of 20\,000m2 in England (Size of two football pitches) and 14\,000m2 in Scotland must be lowered. (Reducing to 1\,000m2 for warehouses containing hazardous goods.) \nA sprinkler save (activation) is categorised as an event where one or more sprinkler heads have activated and contained\, controlled\, or\, in some cases\, extinguished a building fire. This review further substantiates the role and advantages of sprinkler systems within the built environment. \nFor this incident\, the operation of the AWSS\, inside the facility led to the following outcomes: \n\nImplementation of the premises emergency plan allowing the safe evacuation of staff from the premises which can accommodate up to 1200 staff members.\nActivation of the in-rack sprinkler system preventing horizontal fire spread.\nReduced the rate of production of heat and smoke limiting fire growth and ultimately containing and controlling the fire.\nLimited the development of the fire\, facilitating search and rescue efforts by firefighters and reducing risk to personnel.\nAverted the complete loss of the building due to fire.\nPrevented a potentially extended incident that could have required considerable resources from SFRS and impacted routine operations.\n\nThis incident provides additional evidence supporting the reliability and effectiveness of AWSS\, aligning with findings from the report conducted by 1Optimal Economics and commissioned by the National Fire Chiefs Council and National Fire Sprinkler Network on the performance of sprinkler systems in controlling and extinguishing fires. \nThe incident \n\nSFRS despatched 4 pumping appliances to reports of a fire within a warehouse at 13:07.\nUpon arrival the incident commander established:\nThat the seat of the fire was located on the first floor of the 4-storey mezzanine level.\nWhich had spread to the ground\, second\, third and fourth level of the structure.\nActivating the premises sprinkler system.\nFirefighters equipped with breathing apparatus were committed to tackle the fire\, extinguishing the fire using firefighting media\, two jets.\n4 sprinkler heads activated containing\, controlling the fire preventing horizontal fire spread.\nThe affected area damaged by fire covered approximately 10m² per floor.\nStop message confirming the fire was all out received by SFRS control at 15:27 hours.\nEnquires are ongoing to identify the cause of the fire.\n\nConclusion \n\nThis incident highlights the critical importance of active fire protection systems\, notably in rack sprinkler systems\, demonstrating their effectiveness minimising fire-related risks to people\, property\, and the environment.\nAn event with the potential for significant escalation was resolved swiftly\, resulting in minor disruption due to the effective operation of the sprinkler system.\nIncorporating sprinkler systems can safeguard assets\, minimise financial loss\, and bolster business resilience by controlling or extinguishing fires prior to the arrival of emergency services\, allowing for rapid resumption of normal operations and mitigating economic and social impacts.\n\nEssex non sprinklered warehouse fire \nFor context\, the Business Sprinkler Alliance report that in in September 2025\, a non-sprinklered 4000m2 warehouse was destroyed by fire. Requiring 90 firefighters\, 12 fire appliances and specialist equipment from Essex County Fire & rescue Service to contain\, control and extinguish the fire. The warehouse was shared by two businesses\, the financial impact is unknown\, but both companies will need to find alternative accommodation. The disruption to the business operations along with the destruction of stock is likely to come at a severe cost \n \nBRE’s Cost benefit analysis \nResearch conducted by 2BRE Global in 2013 identified sprinklers to be cost effective fire suppression mechanisms in Warehouses larger than 2\,000m2 (around half a football pitch in size) \nThe research also reported other benefits from installing sprinklers including\, reductions in \n\nThe costs of injuries and fatalities.\nReductions in the CO2 released in fires.\nReductions in C02 embodied in replacement of building contents and reconstruction of the building.\nReductions in water used for firefighting.\nReduction in unemployment caused by fires.\n\nBAFSA Comment: \n\nWe support the National Fire Chiefs Council position that Government should reduce the current threshold for the requirement of sprinklers within storage and warehouses to 4\,000m2\n\nSources/further reading \n\n1Efficiency and Effectiveness of sprinkler systems in the United Kingdom: An Analysis from Fire Service Data\n2 An Environmental Impact and Cost Benefit Analysis for Fire Sprinklers in Warehouse Building\, BRE Global\, December 2013\nSprinkler Saves Review 2024/25\nSprinkler Saves winter update \nBusiness Sprinkler Alliance\, case study Essex warehouse fire\nNFCC AWSS Policy Statement\nNFSN Winter newsletter\n\nIf you want to make a difference working in the fire sector\, we need your assistance. \nTo make sprinklers the norm and not the exception – we need the evidence. Encouraging FRS and those in the sprinkler community to promote\, collate\, report sprinkler activations to Sprinkler Saves UK which will help to create a central and comprehensive record of fire incidents where sprinklers played their role in containing/controlling or extinguishing the fire. \nIf you hear of a save report it using this link. \n 
URL:https://www.sprinklersaves.co.uk/saves/scotland-fulfilment-centre-saved-by-sprinklers/
LOCATION:Scotland
CATEGORIES:Industrial
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END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20251101T000000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20251130T000000
DTSTAMP:20260603T011435
CREATED:20260129T094356Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260129T114642Z
UID:10000549-1761955200-1764460800@www.sprinklersaves.co.uk
SUMMARY:Retrofitted sprinkler system extinguishes fire in West Midlands residential tall building
DESCRIPTION:Image credit Wolverhampton Homes living room seat of the fire\n‘The safety of residents is our top priority. We are working with customers and partners such as West Midlands Fire Service\, to ensure that residents are safe from fire at all times. Installing sprinklers in our tower blocks has proven to not only to save lives\, but also minimises damage to the flat and protects firefighters in tackling what could have been a large blaze.’\nNick Lacey\, Building Safety Manager at Wolverhampton Homes\nBackground \nWolverhampton Homes reported this fire and reiterated its commitment to installing sprinklers\, enabling this positive news story to reach a broader audience. By clearly demonstrating the advantages of sprinkler systems in residential fires\, this outcome will entice other stakeholders and housing providers to follow is lead and install sprinklers\, thereby enhancing fire protection for our communities. \nFollowing the tragic fire at Grenfell tower\, the City of Wolverhampton Council took the decision as part of their high-rise infrastructure programme to include the retrofitting of sprinklers in all 36 high-rise tower blocks\, with all but one managed by Wolverhampton Homes. They were built between 1960 and 1973 to provide large numbers of social housing on tight footprints. \nIn the autumn of 2025\, West Midlands Fire Rescue Service (WMFRS) responded to a fire in a high-rise purpose-built block of flats. The buildings sprinkler system activated\, thereby containing\, controlling and extinguishing a small living room fire. No injuries were reported. \nDemonstrating the effectiveness of sprinklers in controlling fires at an early stage\, significantly reducing the risk to life\, limiting fire spread and minimising property damage\, preventing the fire from spreading further preventing flash over allowing a positive outcome. \nIf it was not for the decision by the City of Wolverhampton Council to retrofit sprinklers in their high-rise property portfolio\, the outcome of this incident could have been so different. \nA sprinkler activation is categorised as an event where one or more sprinkler heads have activated and contained\, controlled\, or\, in some cases\, extinguished a building fire. This incident provides further evidence of the effectiveness\, benefits of sprinklers as part of a comprehensive fire safety strategy. \nProviding further weight to the reliability and effectiveness of sprinkler systems following the report conducted by 1Optimal Economics and commissioned by the National Fire Chiefs Council (NFCC)\, National Fire Sprinkler Network into the performance\, reliability\, and effectiveness of sprinkler systems in controlling and extinguishing fires. \nThe Incident \nA fire that started in the living room of a one-bedroom unit within a 16-story residential purpose-built block of flats was caused by discarded smoking materials. The blaze was effectively contained\, controlled\, and extinguished in its original location by the activation of a single sidewall sprinkler head before WMFRS arrived. However\, because the internal doors were left open\, smoke spread throughout the flat. \nThe images identify that the resident maintained poor housekeeping\, with significant disorganisation and clutter throughout the living space with smoking paraphernalia on display. The NFCC report smoking is one of the top causes of accidental dwelling fires in the Uk. Nationally\, it remains the top cause of accidental fire deaths. In the event of a fire\, these conditions could have accelerated its spread\, compromising the means of escape from the flat to a place of safety. \nFortunately\, in this instance\, the sprinkler system was present\, activated controlling the fire’s development and significantly reducing heat and smoke production. This allowed the resident more time to self-evacuate from the dwelling to a place of safety. \n                            \nImage credit Wolverhampton Homes living room seat of the fire\nSpecification of the sprinkler system  \n\nInstalled to comply with BS 9251:2014 Fire Sprinkler Systems for Domestic and Residential Occupancies – Code of Practice.\nCategory 3:\n\nConclusion  \nThis incident provides further supporting evidence of the benefits of sprinklers to under pin the British Automatic Fire Sprinkler Association’s (BAFSA) advocacy\, turning operational evidence into persuasive tools for policy and parliamentary engagement\, and reinforcing the case for the retrofitting of sprinklers systems in high-rise residential blocks of flats. \nWe welcomed the government’s November 2020 decision to lower the height threshold for mandatory sprinklers in purpose group 1a (residential blocks of flats) from 30 metres to 11 metres. Nevertheless\, concerns persist regarding the lack of requirements to retrofit existing residential buildings with sprinklers. \nIn alignment with the 2NFCC sprinkler position statement\, The BAFSA advocate for government action to mandate the retrofitting of sprinklers in high-rise residential buildings. Retrofitting should apply to all existing residential buildings over 18 metres in height\, or those with at least seven storeys served by a single staircase\, as well as all existing residential buildings exceeding 11 metres\, based on risk assessments. \nThe outcome of this fire could have been so different if building had not been fitted with a sprinkler system. \nSources/further reading \n\nSprinkler saves review 2024/2025\nSprinkler Saves winter review\nNFSN Newsletter\n1Efficiency and Effectiveness of sprinkler systems in the United Kingdom:An Analysis from Fire Service Data\n2NFCC AWSS Policy Statement\n\nIf you want to make a difference working in the fire sector\, we need your assistance. To make sprinklers the norm and not the exception – we need the evidence. Encouraging FRS and those in the sprinkler community to promote\, collate\, report sprinkler activations to Sprinkler Saves UK which will help to create a central and comprehensive record of fire incidents where sprinklers played their role in containing/controlling or extinguishing the fire. \nIf you hear of a save report it using this link. \n  \n             \n  \n  \n 
URL:https://www.sprinklersaves.co.uk/saves/retrofitted-sprinkler-system-extinguishes-fire-in-west-midlands-residential-tall-building/
LOCATION:West Midlands
CATEGORIES:Home
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.sprinklersaves.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/West-midlands-image-1-1.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20251022
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20251023
DTSTAMP:20260603T011435
CREATED:20251120T095633Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260129T114401Z
UID:10000540-1761091200-1761177599@www.sprinklersaves.co.uk
SUMMARY:Sprinklers contain fire in Stafford block of flats
DESCRIPTION:Group Manager Mark Walchester Staffordshire Fire & Rescue Service (SFRS) said: “Fire sprinklers are widely recognised as the single most effective method for preventing fire spread in the early stages\, and that was certainly the case in this incident. \n“If the sprinkler had not been activated\, the fire could have spread and become a bigger risk to residents. \n“I would like to reiterate to all housing providers how important these systems are; they not only limit damage but have the ability to save lives.” \nSummary \nAt 4:25am on 22 October 2025\, SFRS responded to a fire in a high-rise residential block of flats. The building’s retrofitted sprinkler system activated\, successfully containing and controlling the fire within the room of origin. Firefighters then extinguished the blaze using appropriate firefighting media. \nA sprinkler activation is categorised as an event where one or more sprinkler heads have activated and contained\, controlled\, or\, in some cases\, extinguished a building fire. This incident provides further evidence of the effectiveness\, benefits of sprinklers as part of a comprehensive fire safety strategy. \nProviding further weight to the reliability and effectiveness of sprinkler systems following the report conducted by 1Optimal Economics\, and commissioned by the National Fire Chiefs Council\, National Fire Sprinkler Network into the performance\, reliability\, and effectiveness of sprinkler systems in controlling and extinguishing fires. \nRevealed that across all premises types: – \n\nSprinklers are 99% efficient in extinguishing or controlling a fire.\nSprinklers are 94% efficient in their ability to operate.\n\nThe incident \n\nFire crews responded to a reported fire in a residential tall building.\nAfter conducting a dynamic risk assessment upon arrival\, the incident commander (IC) determined that the sprinkler system in a flat on the 6th floor of the 16-storey building had been activated.\nThe activation of the sprinkler system allowed time for the IC to implement a robust high rise tactical plan for the incident.\nFirefighters were committed\, establishing that the fire been contained\, controlled in the flat of origin by the activation of 1 sprinkler head.\nThe fire was extinguished using firefighting media.\nThe residents self-evacuated the dwelling prior to the arrival of SFRS.\nEnquires are ongoing to establish the cause of the fire.\n\nThe British Automatic Fire Sprinkler Association (BAFSA)welcomed the government’s November 2020 decision to lower the height threshold for mandatory sprinklers in purpose group 1a (residential blocks of flats) from 30 metres to 11 metres. Nevertheless\, concerns persist regarding the lack of requirements to retrofit existing residential buildings with sprinklers. \nIn alignment with the 2National Fire Chiefs Council (NFCC) sprinkler position statement\, the BAFSA advocate for government action to mandate the retrofitting of sprinklers in high-rise residential buildings. Retrofitting should apply to all existing residential buildings over 18 metres in height\, or those with at least seven storeys served by a single staircase\, as well as all existing residential buildings exceeding 11 metres\, based on risk assessments. \nIf it was not for the decision of the housing provider to retrofit sprinklers the outcome of this incident could have been so much different. \nConclusion \nThis incident highlights the value of residential sprinkler systems in high-rise buildings. In this case\, the system: \n\nProvided support to firefighters operating within a high-rise building reducing fire growth.\nControlling the fire in its early stages\, reducing contribution to fire spread made by combustible construction materials.\nProvided valuable time for the occupier to self-evacuate from the dwelling to a place of safety.\nPrevented conflagration.\nIdentified the importance of active fire protection systems minimising fire-related risks.\nAllowed prompt incident resolution and earlier release of resources\, supporting continued emergency response and giving crews greater confidence when tackling fires in sprinkler protected buildings.\n\nFurthermore\, this incident illustrates that sprinklers are integral to a thorough fire safety strategy\, protecting lives\, property\, and the environment. It also strengthens ongoing advocacy efforts by the NFCC and stakeholders within the fire sector for more rigorous government regulations regarding the retrofitting of sprinklers in existing buildings. \nSources/further reading \n\nSprinkler Saves Review 2024/2025\nSprinkler Saves winter update\n1Optimal economics report Efficiency and Effectiveness of sprinkler systems in the Uk: An analysis from fire service data.\n2National Fire Chiefs Council (NFCC) sprinkler position statement\nSFRS Press release\, Sprinkler system prevents spread of fire inside flats\n\nIf you want to make a difference working in the fire sector\, we need your assistance…… \nTo make sprinklers the norm and not the exception – we need the evidence. Encouraging FRS and those in the sprinkler community to promote\, collate\, report sprinkler activations to Sprinkler Saves UK which will help to create a central and comprehensive record of fire incidents where sprinklers played their role in containing/controlling or extinguishing the fire. \nIf you hear of a save report it using this link.
URL:https://www.sprinklersaves.co.uk/saves/sprinklers-extinguish-fire-in-stafford-block-of-flats/
LOCATION:Stafford
CATEGORIES:Residential
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/heic:https://www.sprinklersaves.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/IMG_2302.heic
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20251009
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20251010
DTSTAMP:20260603T011435
CREATED:20251107T141808Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251107T141808Z
UID:10000537-1759968000-1760054399@www.sprinklersaves.co.uk
SUMMARY:Manchester Specialised Housing Complex Sprinkler Save
DESCRIPTION:Scott Harrison\, Greater Manchester Fire Rescue Service said\, \n “It is the position of both the National Fire Chiefs Council and Greater Manchester Fire Rescue Service\, that sprinklers are an invaluable active fire safety feature that saves lives in the event of a fire\, reducing both property damage and the business impact on the premises”. “This incident underscores the effectiveness of residential life safety sprinkler systems in mitigating fire development. In this case\, a chip pan fire was controlled\, extinguished\, providing the occupant with sufficient time to evacuate safely prior to the arrival of the emergency services”. \nSummary \nSpecialised and supporting housing has seen demographic shifts\, with people living longer lives. This rise in life expectancy means more residents face mobility issues\, reduced sensory abilities\, and cognitive challenges\, which all heighten both the chances of fire and the risk to individuals during such emergencies. \nReinforced by the study\, analysis of national 1fire data\, an in-depth review of fire-related fatalities and severe casualties in England\, 2010/11 to 2018/19 referenced that while there is a lack of recent research on fatal fires\, the available studies consistently identified age\, the presence of an impairment such as physical disability\, smoking\, and alcohol use as key factors on the outcome of the fire\, as they will be less able to respond to a fire. \nThis report details an incident involving a chip pan fire in a flat located within a specialised housing complex. The fire was effectively contained and extinguished by the ²retrofitted sprinkler system. There were no reported injuries\, as the resident successfully self-evacuated prior to the arrival of the Greater Manchester Fire Rescue Service (GMFRS). \nProviding further evidence supporting our long-standing campaign to increase the presence of sprinklers within the built environment by highlighting real life\, tangible examples of where Automatic Water Suppression Systems (AWSS) were present and had an impact. As such\, each of these stories provides powerful evidence of the ability of AWSS protecting our communities from fire. \nWorking with the National Fire Chiefs Council (NFCC)\, the National Fire Sprinkler Network\, and our sprinkler industry colleagues\, we gather evidence of these incidents as a valuable tool highlighting the benefits of AWSS providing vital evidence of the reliability and effectiveness of AWSS adding further weight to the report conducted by 2Optimal economics into the performance\, reliability and effectiveness of AWSS. \nThe outcome of which will influence policymakers to implement change\, the British Automatic Fire Sprinkler Association\, (BAFSA) welcomed the government announcement that as of March 2025\, sprinklers are now required in all new care homes within England\, which we have been constantly calling for\, it remains a concern however that there is still no requirement for the provision of sprinklers to be installed in all new specialised and supported housing. \nThe incident  \n\n9 October 2025 at 12:00 Fire crews were mobilised to reports of a fire\nOn arrival the incident commander established that.\n\n\nThe premises sprinkler system had activated within a self-contained flat on the second floor of the building.\n1x resident self- evacuated from the flat prior to the arrival of GMFRS\n\n\nAnother resident was escorted to safety from a separate flat.\nUpon entering the flat\, firefighters located a chip pan fire in the kitchen.\nThe incident was effectively controlled by the activation of a single horizontal sidewall sprinkler head\, which extinguished the fire and confined it to the room of origin.\nThe fire is reported to have been extinguished at 12:11.\nThe dwelling sprinkler isolation valve located within the common ways above the flat front door was isolated by firefighters following confirmation from the IC the fire was extinguished.\nThe presence of a comprehensive emergency plan enabled the attending sprinkler contractor to restore the building’s sprinkler system within the same afternoon following the fire.\nNo injuries were reported.\nMinor water egress was reported to the flat located below the fire requiring the electrics to be isolated.\n\nSystem\, designed and installed to BS9251:2021 \n\nCategory 3\nCoverage\, individual flats\, communal areas\nDedicated sprinkler pump\, full capacity tank\nFloor\, individual flat isolation valves monitored/flow switch\n\nConclusion \nThis incident reinforces. \n\nWhy\, Government should follow the lead of Scotland and Wales requiring the installation of sprinklers in all new specialised housing buildings irrespective of building height. If it was not for the decision by the housing association to ³retrofit a sprinkler system the outcome of this incident could have been so different.\nAWSS play a key role in fire safety by helping minimise fire risks to people\, property\, firefighters\, and the environment as part of a comprehensive safety plan.\n\nEffective advocacy and policy lobbying require the collection of robust supporting evidence. If you have knowledge of a sprinkler incident that may contribute to this initiative\, please provide the pertinent details using the sprinkler activation reporting form available at www.sprinklersaves.co.uk. \nCredit to GMFRS and Firetech Design Ltd for submitting this incident report to Sprinkler Saves UK\, it makes a difference. \nReferences\, Sources \n¹Research and analysis: – An in-depth review of fire related fatalities and severe casualties in England 2010/11 to 2018/19. \n² the installation of a life safety sprinkler system is intended to reduce heat and smoke\, thereby providing occupants with additional time to safely evacuate or be rescued. However\, the presence of a sprinkler system does not eliminate the necessity for other practical fire precautions\, particularly for individuals who are at above-average risk or who may be unable to self-evacuate in the event of a fire. \n³Optimal Economics Report\, commissioned by the National Fire Chiefs Council\, National Fire Sprinkler Network into the performance\, reliability\, and effectiveness of sprinkler systems in controlling and extinguishing fires. The reports found that: \n\nSprinklers are 99% efficient in extinguishing or controlling a fire.\nSprinklers are 94% efficient in their ability to operate.\n\n\nSprinkler Saves Review 2024/2025\nSprinkler Saves Autumn Update Newsletter\nGMFRS Benefits of sprinklers\n\n     \n 
URL:https://www.sprinklersaves.co.uk/saves/manchester-specialised-housing-complex-sprinkler-save/
LOCATION:Greater Manchester
CATEGORIES:Residential
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20251007
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20251008
DTSTAMP:20260603T011435
CREATED:20251031T084419Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251031T084448Z
UID:10000536-1759795200-1759881599@www.sprinklersaves.co.uk
SUMMARY:Bradford Converted Mill Residential Flat Sprinkler Save
DESCRIPTION:West Yorkshire Fire and Rescue Service spokesperson stated. \n“West Yorkshire Fire and Rescue Service strongly support the use of sprinkler systems as a proven lifesaving and property-protecting measure. Sprinklers activate automatically in response to heat\, suppressing fires before they can spread\, which not only protects occupants and firefighters but also limits damage to buildings and their contents.” \nSummary \nThe effectiveness of installing a life safety residential sprinkler system in a former Grade-11 listed mill\, now modern apartments\, was demonstrated when a kitchen fire was quickly extinguished and contained to a single room by one activated sprinkler head\, with no injuries reported. This incident provides further support for the reliability and effectiveness of sprinkler systems\, as also highlighted in a report conducted by Optimal Economics and commissioned by the National Fire Chief’s Council and National Fire Sprinkler Network\, which examined the performance\, reliability\, and success of sprinkler systems in controlling and extinguishing fires. \nRevealed that across all building types \n\nSprinklers are 99% in extinguishing or controlling a fire\nSprinklers are 94% efficient in their ability to operate\n\nThe incident \n\n8 October 2025 at 14:02\, Fire crews were mobilised to reports of a fire\nOn arrival the incident commander established that.\n\n\nThe premises sprinkler system had activated within a self-contained apartment\n4x residents self- evacuated the premises\n\n\nUpon entering the apartment\, firefighters located that a fire in the kitchen involving cooking oils had been effectively controlled and extinguished by the activation of 1 sprinkler head.\nFire damage contained to the room of origin.\nNo injuries were reported.\n\nConclusion \nThis incident reinforces. \n\nThe benefits of AWSS protecting historic buildings where the historic fabric or contents may be irreplaceable as part of a package of fire safety measures.\nAWSS play a key role in fire safety by helping minimise fire risks to people\, property\, firefighters\, and the environment as part of a comprehensive safety plan.\nThat a correctly\, designed\, installed AWSS\, in line with applicable codes and standards\, can reduce the rate of heat and smoke production\, providing more time for occupants to leave safely.\nPrevented a potentially extended incident that could have required considerable resources from WYFRS\, impacting routine operations.\n\nReferences \n\nOptimal Economics Report\, commissioned by the National Fire Chiefs Council\, National Fire Sprinkler Network into the performance\, reliability\, and effectiveness of sprinkler systems in controlling and extinguishing fires.\nSprinkler Saves Review 2024/2025\nSprinkler Saves autumn update 2025\nWest Yorkshire Fire & Rescue Service\n\n 
URL:https://www.sprinklersaves.co.uk/saves/bradford-converted-mill-residential-flat-sprinkler-save/
LOCATION:Bradford
CATEGORIES:Residential
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.sprinklersaves.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/concealed-sprinkler-head.jpg
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20251001T080000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20251031T170000
DTSTAMP:20260603T011435
CREATED:20251202T181403Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260129T114424Z
UID:10000542-1759305600-1761930000@www.sprinklersaves.co.uk
SUMMARY:Dudley Residential Care Home loft Sprinkler Save
DESCRIPTION:West Midlands Fire Service\, (WMFRS) Mark Serdetschniy said: \n“If it was not for the sprinkler system suppressing the fire before the arrival of the fire service\, the outcome of this fire could have been so different\, the sprinkler system absolutely saved lives and the building.” \nThe Incident \nAt 03:47\, WMFRS responded to a fire on the first floor of a residential care home. The incident originated with the bathroom ceiling extractor fan\, resulting in limited fire spread within the roof void above. Activation of a single sprinkler head in the room of origin effectively reducing the products of combustion\, thereby restricting fire growth and allowing WMFS sufficient time to extinguish the fire using firefighting media. No injuries were reported. \nResidential care premises  \nPresent a series of unique challenges with respect to fire safety. The needs of the occupants and the resources required to undertake an evacuation in these types of premises require careful consideration both in the design and ongoing operation of such buildings\, to ensure that an appropriate level of fire safety is provided. \nThe diminished senses that result from the ageing process may ultimately result in the occupants having a slower reaction time to raise an alarm\, and due to the residents’ reduced physical capabilities\, a slower response time to an alarm\, which may result in an increased evacuation time. \nAll the above- mentioned factors combine to increase the risk of injury or fatality in a fire\, especially where assistance from staff may be restricted at night where residents require assistance\, it is likely that the evacuation process will take longer\, and sprinklers provide significant benefits to address this risk. \nBenefits of reporting sprinkler activations \nWorking with the National Fire Chiefs Council\, the National Fire Sprinkler Network\, and our Automatic Water Suppression System (AWSS) colleagues we gather evidence of these incidents as a valuable tool highlighting the benefits of AWSS providing vital evidence of the reliability and effectiveness of AWSS adding further weight to the report conducted by 1Optimal economics into the performance\, reliability and effectiveness of AWSS. \nProviding further evidence supporting our long-standing campaign to increase the presence of sprinklers within the built environment by highlighting real life tangible examples of where AWSS were present and had an impact. As such\, each of these stories provide powerful evidence of the ability of AWSS protecting our communities from fire. \nThe outcome of which will influence policymakers to implement change\, the British Automatic Fire Sprinkler Association\, welcomed the government announcement that as of March 2025\, Sprinklers are now required in all new care homes regardless of height within England\, which we have been constantly calling for within the fire sector\, however we agree with the 2NFCC that it remains a concern there is no requirement to cover homes undergoing extension or major and significant refurbishment. \nConclusion \nThis incident reinforces. \n\nThe sprinkler system maintained the care homes continuity of providing care to their residents with minimal disruption\, valuable community asset saved.\nThe installation of sprinklers reduces the likelihood of a fire spreading beyond the room of origin\, providing valuable time for evacuation and firefighting reducing the need for decanting the vulnerable residents\nAWSS play a key role in fire safety by helping minimise fire risks to people\, property\, firefighters\, and the environment as part of a comprehensive safety plan.\n\nEffective advocacy and policy lobbying require the collection of robust supporting evidence. If you have knowledge of a sprinkler incident that may contribute to this initiative\, please provide the pertinent details using the sprinkler activation reporting form available at www.sprinklersaves.co.uk. \nCredit to WMFS for submitting this incident report to Sprinkler Saves UK\, it makes a difference. \nReferences\, Sources \n\n1Optimal Economics Report\, commissioned by the National Fire Chiefs Council\n2NFCC AWSS policy statement\nSprinkler Saves Review 2024/2025\nSprinkler Saves Autum update 2025\nWMFRS Sprinklers\nNFSN Winter newsletter\n\n       
URL:https://www.sprinklersaves.co.uk/saves/dudley-residential-care-home-loft-sprinkler-save/
LOCATION:Dudley
CATEGORIES:Commercial
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20250906
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20250907
DTSTAMP:20260603T011435
CREATED:20251010T120808Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251112T072415Z
UID:10000533-1757116800-1757203199@www.sprinklersaves.co.uk
SUMMARY:Bristol kitchen high rise residential building sprinkler activation
DESCRIPTION: Richard Bobruk\, Business Fire Safety Officer\, Avon Fire & Rescue Service: \n“Automatic fire sprinkler systems are a proven life safety measure. According to a report commissioned by the National Fire Chiefs’ Council\, the systems are: \n\n99% effective in controlling or extinguishing fires in buildings where they are fitted.\n94% reliable in terms of correct operation during an incident.\n\nBeyond fire suppression\, sprinklers reduce the production of toxic smoke and limit property damage\, easing the burden on emergency services and reducing long-term recovery costs.” \n Summary \nThe benefits of retrofitting a life safety sprinkler system in a tall residential block of flats was demonstrated following a flat kitchen fire which was quickly contained\, controlled following the activation of 1 sidewall sprinkler head. No injuries were reported. \nFurther evidence supporting our ongoing campaign in collaboration with the National Fire Chiefs Council (NFCC)\, National Fire Sprinkler Network\, and Business Sprinkler Alliance. This initiative aims to highlight the benefits of Automatic Water Suppression Systems (AWSS) and advocate for their increased implementation throughout the built environment. \nOne work stream providing authoritative information to local members of parliament (MP) regarding incidents within their constituencies where sprinklers were present\, having an impact. The aim is to inform MP on the benefits of AWSS to encourage support for them to influence government for change increasing the presence of sprinklers within the built environment. \nIt is proven Sprinklers save lives\, protect firefighters\, if it was not for the decision taken by Bristol City Council to undertake a program to install sprinkler in all its 62 tower blocks to provide a further layer of safety for its residents from fire\, the outcome of this incident could have been so much different. \nDemonstrating that a correctly designed\, installed\, and maintained residential sprinkler system\, in line with applicable codes and standards\, can reduce the rate of heat and smoke production\, providing more time for occupants to leave safely. \nThe Incident  \n\n13:06pm\, Firefighters were mobilised to a fire incident within a high-rise\, purpose-built residential block of flats.\nUpon completing a dynamic risk assessment\, the incident commander determined that the fire was limited to a single flat located on the 8th floor of the 10-storey building.\nFirefighters wearing Breathing Apparatus entered the premises and confirmed that the fire\, originating from a frying pan left on the kitchen cooker\, had been contained\, controlled by the activation of a sidewall sprinkler head.\nThe remaining fire was fully extinguished using appropriate firefighting media. No injuries were reported.\nFire damage was sustained to the item first ignited with light smoke staining located on the wall\, ceiling above the cooker hob.\nThe fire was confirmed as extinguished at 13:06 allowing operational crews to be released\, to attend other emergency incidents.\n\nSprinkler System \nDesign of the sprinkler system\, installed to BS 9251 in accordance with the guidance contained in ADB Volume 2 Appendix E. \nBusiness Recovery plan  \n\nFirefighters are increasingly likely to respond to incidents in buildings equipped with sprinkler systems\, it is therefore critical for building managers and duty holders to integrate an effective business recovery plan into the premises’ emergency protocols.\nThe benefit of which will allow the fire service to efficiently manage water following sprinkler system activation during a fire or in the rare event of accidental discharge\, thereby mitigating potential disruptions to business operations or occupancy.\nThis should include comprehensive\, clear and accessible onsite information to facilitate fire service engagement allowing the sprinkler system to be isolated following confirmation to the incident commander the fire is all out.\n\nFurther guidance can be found in the BAFSA Information file\, Sprinkler protected Buildings: A guide for responsible persons and duty holders \nConclusion  \nThis incident provides further evidence that the main functional objectives of a sprinkler system were achieved. \n\nReduce the rate of production of heat and smoke limiting fire growth and ultimately containing and controlling and\, in some cases\, extinguish the fire.\nPrevented a potentially extended incident that could have required considerable resources from AFRS\, impacting routine operations.\nLimited the development of the fire\, facilitating search and rescue efforts by firefighters and reducing risk to personnel.\n\nSources/further reading.  \n\nSprinkler Saves Review 2024/25\, This review showcases just how essential AWSS\, including sprinklers and watermist systems\, are in safeguarding our communities from the devastating effects of fire\nSprinkler Saves Summer Update No 8\nAvon Fire and Rescue Service Press release Life-saving sprinkler systems praised following recent incidents\nBAFSA Information file\, Sprinkler protected Buildings: A guide for responsible persons and duty holders\n\n       
URL:https://www.sprinklersaves.co.uk/saves/bristol-kitchen-high-rise-residential-building-sprinkler-activation/
LOCATION:Bristol
CATEGORIES:Residential
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20250813
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20250814
DTSTAMP:20260603T011435
CREATED:20251114T044210Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251202T181439Z
UID:10000538-1755043200-1755129599@www.sprinklersaves.co.uk
SUMMARY:Water Mist Activation Saves Scotland Social Housing Property
DESCRIPTION:Credit Image iMistTM\nSummary \nThis report details a fire which occurred on the first floor of a domestic dwelling\, involving a children’s bedroom involving faulty fuel supplies\, electricity which ignited mattress and bedding. The fire was contained\, extinguished by the activation of the building’s water mist system. There were no reported injuries\, the residents successfully self-evacuated prior to the arrival of the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service (SFRS) \nIn collaboration with the National Fire Chiefs Council\, the National Fire Sprinkler Network\, and our Automatic Water Suppression System (AWSS) colleagues\, Sprinkler Saves UK (The British Automatic Fire Sprinkler Association) collects evidence of such incidents. Supporting our campaign to increase the presence of AWSS within the built environment by highlighting real life\, tangible examples of where AWSS were present and had an impact. As such\, each of these stories provides powerful evidence of the ability of AWSS protecting our communities from fire. \nThe outcome of which will provide evidence of the benefits of AWSS\, influencing policymakers to implement change\, the British Automatic Fire Sprinkler Association\, welcomed the government announcement that as of November 2020\, sprinklers are now required in all new residential buildings above 11m in height\, it remains a concern however that England’s national building and fire safety regulations trail behind its neighbours\, governments in other UK jurisdictions for the installation of AWSS. \nIf it was not for this decision taken by the Scottish Government to initiate legislation to require for all new build social homes\, flats and shared multi-occupied residential buildings to be fitted with AWSS from March 2021. the outcome of this incident could have been so different. \n1Stuart Stevens\, Scottish Fire and Rescue Service Chief Officer\, said: \n“The Scottish Fire and Rescue Service welcomes the amended regulations and the increased provision of automatic fire suppression systems. This provision is a significant step forward in fire safety and will increase the safety of our communities\, residents and firefighters. \nThe Incident  \n\nOn 13 August 2025 at 09:13\, three fire engines were dispatched to a reported fire.\nUpon arrival\, the incident commander (IC) identified a fire in a bedroom on the first floor of a social housing property consisting of a ground and first floor.\nFollowing the completion of a dynamic risk assessment by the IC.\nFirefighters wearing breathing apparatus were committed with firefighting media.\nUpon entry to the bedroom\, it was established that the fire had been contained\, extinguished by the operation of a BS8458 automatic water mist fire suppression system and confined to the room of origin following the activation of a single nozzle.\nArea of premises affected by fire 16m2\nThe occupants evacuated the dwelling independently prior to the arrival of the SFRS and no injuries were reported.\nThe system was installed and manufactured by iMistTM\n\n       \nCredit Image iMistT \nConclusion \nThis incident reinforces the benefits of AWSS\, in this case water mist which can be used as a form of suppression in buildings where there is an appropriate test protocol in accordance with the relevant standard. Playing a significant role as part of a package of fire safety measures\, reducing the impact of fire on people\, firefighters\, property and the environment. \nSprinkler Saves UK promotes the reporting of all types of fire suppression systems. It is noteworthy to learn about the effective activation of a water mist system which successfully achieved its intended functional objectives. \n\nReducing the rate of production of heat and smoke limiting fire growth and ultimately extinguishing the fire.\nLimited the development of the fire to the room of origin\, providing valuable time for the occupants to self-evacuate from the building to a place of safety before the arrival of SFRS.\n\nHad the Scottish Government not enacted legislation mandating the installation of AWSS in all new social homes\, flats\, and shared multi-occupied residential buildings from March 2021\, the outcome of this incident might have been markedly different. \nBAFSA has published a guide which provides detailed information on the types of water mist systems available\, how they can be used and how to choose the most appropriate one for the selected application.  Click here to download the guide Water Mist Technical Guide. \nEffective advocacy and policy lobbying require the collection of robust supporting evidence. If you have knowledge of a sprinkler incident that may contribute to this initiative\, please provide the pertinent details using the sprinkler activation reporting form available at www.sprinklersaves.co.uk. \nReferences\, Sources \n\n1Scottish Government News\, Improved fire safety for new flats and social homes.\nSprinkler Saves Review 2024/2025\nSprinkler Saves Winter Update\niMistTM System Extinguished Childs Bedroom Fire\, Keeping Family Safe\nScottish Fire Rescue Service\, Fire Sprinkler Systems\nNational Fire Chiefs Council AWSS Position Statement\nWater Mist Technical Guide\n\n       \n 
URL:https://www.sprinklersaves.co.uk/saves/water-mist-activation-saves-scotland-social-housing-property/
LOCATION:Scotland
CATEGORIES:Domestic
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20250812
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20250813
DTSTAMP:20260603T011435
CREATED:20250815T161140Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250815T162413Z
UID:10000528-1754956800-1755043199@www.sprinklersaves.co.uk
SUMMARY:Sprinklers extinguish fire in Southampton scissor design residential block
DESCRIPTION:Incident Commander Mark Caplen said \n\n\n“The sprinklers in the flats operated exactly as intended\, containing the fire to a single room and preventing it from becoming a far more serious incident. The occupier was already safely outside when we arrived\, while other residents followed the building’s ‘stay put’ policy and guidance from our Control team. The building performed exactly as designed during the fire. This incident highlights the importance of having robust fire safety measures in place.” \nSummary \nOn 12 August 2025\, the Hampshire & Isle of Wight Fire & Rescue Service (HIWFRS) responded to a fire incident in a Southampton purpose-built ¹scissor block residential flat. The retrofitted residential sprinkler system was activated\, effectively containing\, controlling\, and extinguishing a fire involving textiles that had been accidentally left on a cooking hob. There were no reported injuries. \nA sprinkler activation is categorised as an event where one or more sprinkler heads have activated and contained\, controlled\, or\, in some cases\, extinguished a building fire. This incident provides further evidence of the effectiveness\, benefits of sprinklers as part of a comprehensive fire safety strategy. \nProviding further weight to the reliability and effectiveness of sprinkler systems following the report conducted by ²Optimal Economics\, and commissioned by the National Fire Chiefs Council\, National Fire Sprinkler Network into the performance\, reliability\, and effectiveness of sprinkler systems in controlling and extinguishing fires. \nRevealed that across all premises types: – \n\nSprinklers are 99% efficient in extinguishing or controlling a fire.\nSprinklers are 94% efficient in their ability to operate.\n\nSouthampton City Council demonstrated its commitment to fire safety by agreeing\, in June 2017\, to fund the retrofitting of residential sprinklers within its twenty high-rise buildings as part of a phased programme\, in response to the Grenfell Tower fire. This initiative was undertaken in close collaboration with HIWFRS. \nPriority will be given first to the blocks known as scissor blocks\, followed by the tallest blocks featuring single staircases\, with the remainder prioritised according to height. Such a commitment is essential; without it\, the outcomes of similar incidents could be significantly different. \nBAFSA welcomed the government’s November 2020 decision to lower the height threshold for mandatory sprinklers in purpose group 1a (residential blocks of flats) from 30 metres to 11 metres. Nevertheless\, concerns persist regarding the lack of requirements to retrofit existing residential buildings with sprinklers. \nIn alignment with the 4National Fire Chiefs Council (NFCC) sprinkler position statement\, The British Automatic Fire Sprinkler Association advocate for government action to mandate the retrofitting of sprinklers in high-rise residential buildings. Retrofitting should apply to all existing residential buildings over 18 metres in height\, or those with at least seven storeys served by a single staircase\, as well as all existing residential buildings exceeding 11 metres\, based on risk assessments. \n¹ scissor block residential flats\, consist of interlocking designs consisting of up flats and down flats. served at alternate floors by a common corridor\, which are difficult to understand when performing firefighting duties. \nThe incident  \n\nFire crews responded to a reported fire in a residential tall building.\nFollowing the completion of a dynamic risk assessment by the incident commander\, (IC)\nIt was established that the premises sprinkler system had operated on the 3rd floor of the 15-storey building within a flat.\nThe activation of the sprinkler system allowed extra time for the IC to implement a robust high rise tactical plan for the incident.\nFirefighting crews wearing breathing apparatus were committed\, establishing that the fire within the kitchen had been contained\, controlled and extinguished by the activation of 1 sprinkler head.\nFirefighting media was applied for turning over and dampening down remaining hot spots.\nFire damage was sustained to the item first ignited on the cooking hob with smoke damage reported throughout the flat.\nThe resident self-evacuated the dwelling prior to the arrival of HIWFRS with no injuries reported\, two cats were rescued.\nCause of the fire\,  textiles accidentally left on a cooking hob.\nThe common ways were not compromised by fire\, smoke.\nPreplanning using up to date risk information (72d) gathered by operational crews allowed the  sprinkler system to be isolated\, following confirmation the fire had been extinguished.\n\nConclusion \nThis incident underscores the benefits of installing residential sprinkler systems in high-rise tall buildings. In this instance\, the systems \n\nProvided support to firefighters operating within a complex building featuring a scissor block design by effectively containing fire spread\, extinguishing the fire playing a key role in mitigating risks for firefighting personnel.\nProvided valuable time for the occupier to self-evacuate from the dwelling to a place of safety\nPrevented conflagration\nIdentified the importance of active fire protection systems minimising fire-related risks.\n\nFurthermore\, this incident illustrates that AWSS are integral to a thorough fire safety strategy\, protecting lives\, property\, and the environment. It also strengthens ongoing advocacy efforts by the National Fire Chiefs Council (NFCC) and stakeholders within the fire sector for more rigorous government regulations regarding the retrofitting of sprinklers in existing buildings. \nSources/further reading \n\nSprinkler Saves Review 2024/2025\nSprinkler Saves Summer Update No 8\n² Optimal economics report Efficiency and Effectiveness of sprinkler systems in the Uk: An analysis from fire service data.\n³Southampton city council\, overview and scrutiny management committee 9 November 2017\n4National Fire Chiefs Council (NFCC) sprinkler position statement\nHampshire & Isle of Wight Fire & Rescue Service incident of interest\n\n\n\nIf you want to make a difference working in the fire sector\, we need your assistance…… \nTo make sprinklers the norm and not the exception – we need the evidence. Encouraging FRS and those in the sprinkler community to promote\, collate\, report sprinkler activations to Sprinkler Saves UK which will help to create a central and comprehensive record of fire incidents where sprinklers played their role in containing/controlling or extinguishing the fire. \nIf you hear of a save report it using this link. \n\n           \n\n 
URL:https://www.sprinklersaves.co.uk/saves/sprinklers-extinguish-fire-in-southampton-tall-building/
CATEGORIES:Residential
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20250801T000000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20250831T235900
DTSTAMP:20260603T011435
CREATED:20250925T191040Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251011T150424Z
UID:10000532-1754006400-1756684740@www.sprinklersaves.co.uk
SUMMARY:Sprinkler Save London Underground Station
DESCRIPTION:Summary \n\nLondon Fire Brigade (LFB) reported  a sub-surface fire involving an electrical motor in a London Underground escalator plant room.\nAfter conducting a dynamic risk assessment\, the incident commander determined that the escalator water suppression system (EWSS) had been activated within one of the station escalator chambers. \nFirefighters wearing breathing apparatus entered the area and confirmed that the fire had been controlled and contained due to the activation of the EWSS.\nThe remaining fire was extinguished by firefighters using appropriate firefighting media. No injuries occurred. \nThe investigation found that the fire resulted from a heated motor brake drum igniting accumulated debris. \nThe station was reopened shortly after the incident was resolved.\n\nEscalator Water Suppression System  \nA bespoke¹ fire suppression system\, specifically engineered for the London Underground\, designed to safeguard escalators within sub-surface stations from fire. This solution provides full coverage along the entire incline\, including upper and lower tread areas\, machinery\, dust trays\, and the open spaces surrounding the sides of the escalators. \nEach system comprises of range pipes divided into fire zones\, (dry pipe system) terminating in open sprinkler heads\, the heads are directed into the escalator machinery to suppress the risk. \nEach zone is controlled by a multiple Jet Control valve\, which incorporates glass bulb type mechanical detection device and an electrically operated detonator fuse. Distribution pipes connect the system to a suitable water supply usually ²town’s main system. \nIn the system standby condition\, water is stopped from entering the range pipework by the multiple jet control valves. (MJC) \nAn MJC will only allow water to flow\, into the zone that it controls\, when it is either; triggered by an independent automatic fire detection system or subjected to sufficient heat to operate the mechanical detection glass bulb. \nThe fire detection system is managed by a dedicated fire panel monitoring a linear heat cable positioned in the escalator truss work. Should a fire affect a fire zone an adjacent zone of the EWSS will operate. The hydraulic calculations were based on supplying two zones simultaneously. \nKings Cross Underground Escalator Fire \n37 years ago\, a fire at Kings Cross underground station claimed the lives of 31 people which also started in an escalator. It is reported that a lit match fell through a gap on a wooden escalator and set fire to the grease and litter beneath the steps. \nA subsequent investigation revealed a lethal combination of flashover\, a rapid air-borne fire spread due to intense heat\, and the trench effect\, a newly identified phenomenon on steep surfaces\, as the reasons behind the disaster. \nFollowing a public enquiry by Sir Desmond Fennell published in December 1988\, 157 recommendations were made which included banning smoking to all station areas\, replacing of wooden escalators. \nMajor stations underwent comprehensive fire safety upgrades\, including the gradual replacement of ³275 wooden escalators with metal ones\, installation of heat detectors and escalator water suppression systems beneath escalators\, accompanied by enhancements in radio communication and staff emergency training for the London Underground. \nConclusion \nThis incident provides further evidence on the benefits of fitting automatic water suppression systems in London underground sub stations\, providing a further layer of safety from fire for passengers\, staff and firefighters as part of a package of fire safety measures through early detection and suppression minimising disruption from fire. \n\n¹There is no British or European Standard which deals directly with EWSS\n²EWSS are required to be a secure supply conforming to the requirements of BS5306 and BSEN12845 for duplicate or superior single water supplies\n³Uk Parliament\, London underground: Escalator maintenance debate July 1989\n\nSources/further reading \n\nSprinkler Saves Review 2024/2025\nSprinkler Saves Summer Update No 8\nLFB\, The kings Cross fire\n\nIf you want to make a difference working in the fire sector\, we need your assistance. \nTo make sprinklers the norm and not the exception – we need the evidence. Encouraging FRS and those in the sprinkler community to promote\, collate\, report sprinkler activations to Sprinkler Saves UK which will help to create a central and comprehensive record of fire incidents where sprinklers played their role in containing/controlling or extinguishing the fire. \nIf you hear of a save report it using this link. \n   
URL:https://www.sprinklersaves.co.uk/saves/sprinkler-save-london-victoria-underground-station/
LOCATION:Greater London
CATEGORIES:Commercial
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END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20250801
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20250802
DTSTAMP:20260603T011435
CREATED:20250813T093547Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250813T093547Z
UID:10000526-1754006400-1754092799@www.sprinklersaves.co.uk
SUMMARY:Staffordshire warehouse saved by sprinklers
DESCRIPTION:Head of Prevent\, Protect and Partnerships\, Ian Read\, said: “At Staffordshire Fire and Rescue Service\, we champion the use of automatic sprinklers. As shown in the incident at a warehouse on 1 August \, the fire was contained and extinguished by the installed water suppression system\, which are an invaluable resource for our crews. “We would encourage all businesses to consider the equipment they have installed to help reduce risk should the worst happen.” \nSummary \nStaffordshire Fire & Rescue Service (SFRS) reported a fire within a single-story warehouse which was contained\, controlled and extinguished through the activation of the automatic water suppression system\, (AWSS) on this occasion  a sprinkler system. \nA sprinkler save (activation) is categorised as an event where one or more sprinkler heads have activated and contained\, controlled\, or\, in some cases\, extinguished a building fire. This review further substantiates the role and advantages of sprinkler systems within the built environment. \nFor this incident\, the operation of the AWSS\, inside the facility led to the following outcomes: \n\nReduce the rate of production of heat and smoke limiting fire growth and ultimately containing and controlling and extinguished the fire.\nPrevented a potentially extended incident that could have required considerable resources from SFRS and impacted routine operations.\nLimited the development of the fire\, facilitating search and rescue efforts by firefighters and reducing risk to personnel.\nAverted the complete loss of the building due to fire.\n\nThis incident provides additional evidence supporting the reliability and effectiveness of AWSS\, aligning with findings from the report conducted by ¹Optimal Economics and commissioned by the National Fire Chiefs Council and National Fire Sprinkler Network on the performance of sprinkler systems in controlling and extinguishing fires \nThe incident \n\nAugust 2025\, SFRS despatched 3 pumping appliances to a warehouse fire on an industrial estate.\nUpon arrival the incident commander established that the fire was located on the ground floor of the single storey warehouse involving an industrial forklift.\nThe fire was contained and controlled through the combined action of four activated sprinkler heads and the presence of ²firewalls within the premises.\nFirefighters equipped with breathing apparatus confirmed the extinguishment of a fire involving a forklift lead-acid battery\, attributed to the sprinkler system’s activation.\nThe affected area damaged by fire covered approximately 25m².\nFire damage to the lead-acid battery and subsequent exposure to sprinkler water initiated an exothermic reaction with the sulphuric acid\, while recorded temperatures did not exceed 80°C\n\nConclusion \n\nThe incident highlights the critical importance of active fire protection systems\, notably AWSS\, demonstrating their effectiveness when integrated with passive measures such as firewalls. Together\, these elements constitute a robust framework aimed at minimising fire-related risks to people\, property\, and the environment.\nAn event with the potential for significant escalation was resolved swiftly\, resulting in only minor disruption due to the effective operation of the sprinkler system.\nIncorporating sprinkler systems can safeguard assets\, minimise financial loss\, and bolster business resilience by controlling or extinguishing fires prior to the arrival of emergency services\, allowing for rapid resumption of normal operations and mitigating economic and social impacts.\n\nFor context\, in August 2021\, a non-sprinklered warehouse fire in Coventry reported by the Business Sprinkler Alliance required ten fire appliances and seventy firefighters to suppress the blaze\, which ultimately destroyed the Ram Enterprise building at Prologis Park. The structure was demolished four days after the incident. \nSources/further reading.  \n\nSprinkler Saves Review 2024/25\nSprinkler Saves Spring Update No 8\n¹Efficiency and Effectiveness of sprinkler systems in the United Kingdom: An Analysis from Fire Service Data\nBusiness Sprinkler Alliance\, case study Coventry warehouse fire\n²Firewalls\, is a fire‐resistant structure which restricts the spread of fire and extends continuously from the foundation to or through the roof with sufficient structural stability under fire conditions to allow the collapse of the existing construction on either side of the wall to occur without allowing the collapse of the wall.\n\nIf you want to make a difference working in the fire sector\, we need your assistance. \nTo make sprinklers the norm and not the exception – we need the evidence. Encouraging FRS and those in the sprinkler community to promote\, collate\, report sprinkler activations to Sprinkler Saves UK which will help to create a central and comprehensive record of fire incidents where sprinklers played their role in containing/controlling or extinguishing the fire. \nIf you hear of a save report it using this link. \n          \n 
URL:https://www.sprinklersaves.co.uk/saves/staffordshire-warehouse-saved-by-sprinklers/
LOCATION:Staffordshire
CATEGORIES:Commercial
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20250717
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20250718
DTSTAMP:20260603T011435
CREATED:20250913T212022Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250925T191151Z
UID:10000530-1752710400-1752796799@www.sprinklersaves.co.uk
SUMMARY:Manchester Flat Fire Sprinkler Save
DESCRIPTION:Summary \n17 July 2025\, Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service (GMFRS) reported a fire in a purpose-built residential block of flats. The retrofitted life safety residential sprinkler system was activated and successfully extinguished a fire involving upholstered furniture. No injuries were reported. \nA sprinkler save is categorised as an event where one or more sprinkler heads have activated and contained\, controlled\, or\, in some cases\, extinguished a building fire. This incident provides further evidence of the effectiveness\, benefits of sprinklers as part of a comprehensive fire safety strategy for a building. \nProviding further weight to the reliability and effectiveness of sprinkler systems following the report conducted by ¹Optimal Economics and commissioned by the National Fire Chiefs Council (NFCC)\, National Fire Sprinkler Network into the performance\, reliability\, and effectiveness of sprinkler systems in controlling and extinguishing fires. \nRevealed that across all premises types: – \n\nSprinklers are 99% efficient in extinguishing or controlling a fire.\nSprinklers are 94% efficient in their ability to operate.\n\nThe 4Guinness Partnership\, one of England’s largest providers of affordable housing\, has demonstrated its commitment to enhanced fire safety by pledging to retrofit residential sprinklers in all buildings exceeding 18 metres in height\, following the Grenfell tragedy. Such a commitment is vital; without it\, the outcomes of similar incidents within their property portfolio could be significantly different. \nThe British Automatic Fire Sprinkler Association (BAFSA) welcomed the government’s decision on November 2020 to lower the height threshold for mandatory sprinklers in purpose group 1a (residential blocks of flats) from 30 metres to 11 metres. Nevertheless\, concerns persist regarding the lack of requirements to retrofit existing residential buildings with sprinklers. In alignment with the 2NFCC AWSS position statement\, we advocate for government action to mandate the retrofitting of sprinklers in high-rise residential buildings. Retrofitting should apply to all existing residential buildings over 18 metres in height\, or those with at least seven storeys served by a single staircase\, as well as all existing residential buildings exceeding 11 metres\, based on risk assessments. \nThe incident  \n\nFire crews responded to a reported fire within a 15-storey building.\nFollowing the completion of a dynamic risk assessment by the incident commander.\nIt was established that the fire involved a flat on the eleventh floor.\nFirefighters were committed to extinguish the fire who established upon entry that the fire had been contained\, controlled and extinguished within the room of origin by the activation of 1 sprinkler head.\nUp to 5sqm fire damage was reported for within the room of origin.\nThe cause of the fire\, careless disposal of smoking materials.\nNo injuries were reported.\n\nThe benefits sprinklers \nFor this reported fire\, the benefits of retrofitting a residential sprinkler system within the dwellings of a single staircase purpose-built block of flats of 15 storeys. The outcome of which \n\nRestricted the fire’s growth\, containing and controlling the fire to the room of origin.\nExtinguished the fire before the arrival of GMFRS\nPreventing a potential major protracted incident that could challenge FRS maintaining a business-as-usual routine service.\n\nConclusion \nThis incident provides further evidence on the benefits of retrofitting a life safety residential sprinkler system in high rise residential buildings supporting the calls from the NFCC and the fire sector urging government to introduce further regulations for the installation of retrofitting sprinklers in the built environment. \nWhen comparing this incident to a similar 3high-rise building fire in Salford in December 2022\, where sprinklers were not installed\, the outcomes were markedly different. The GMFRS press release regarding the Salford incident highlights the significant impact that the absence of a life safety residential sprinkler system can have on the building\, residents. \nSources/further reading \n\nSprinkler Saves Review 2024/2025\nSprinkler Saves Summer Update No 8\n¹Optimal economics report Efficiency and Effectiveness of sprinkler systems in the Uk: An analysis from fire service data\n²NFCC Sprinkler position statement\n3Salford high rise building fire December 2022 (GMFRS press release)\n4Inside housing\, The Guiness partnership revels progress on sprinkler retrofits\nGMFRS Benefits of sprinklers\n\nIf you want to make a difference working in the fire sector\, we need your assistance. \nTo make sprinklers the norm and not the exception – we need the evidence. Encouraging FRS and those in the sprinkler community to promote\, collate\, report sprinkler activations to Sprinkler Saves UK which will help to create a central and comprehensive record of fire incidents where sprinklers played their role in containing/controlling or extinguishing the fire. \nIf you hear of a save report it using this link. \n     
URL:https://www.sprinklersaves.co.uk/saves/manchester-flat-fire-sprinklers-save/
LOCATION:Greater Manchester
CATEGORIES:Residential
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END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20250711
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20250712
DTSTAMP:20260603T011435
CREATED:20250722T085131Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250722T085206Z
UID:10000523-1752192000-1752278399@www.sprinklersaves.co.uk
SUMMARY:London studio flat sprinkler save
DESCRIPTION:   Image credit Nationwide sprinklers\nSummary  \nThis is the ¹second reported activation of the sprinkler system within 19 months at a former six-storey office block converted to provide 62 one roomed studio flats. In both Instances the fire was contained\, controlled or extinguished by the sprinkler system. \nA sprinkler activation is categorised as an event where one or more sprinkler heads have operated to contain\, control\, or extinguish a building fire. These incidents provides evidence of the effectiveness of sprinklers as part of a comprehensive fire safety strategy. \nIn this particular incident\, the presence of a residential sprinkler system in a tall residential building. Resulted in the following outcomes. \n\nThe fire’s growth was limited and extinguished in the room of origin\nPreventing a potential major protracted incident that could strain the operational resilience of the LFB resources and challenge maintaining routine services.\n\nThe provision of a sprinkler system does not eliminate the need for other fire safety measures\, especially for individuals at higher-than-average risk from fire and those unable to self-evacuate in the event of a fire. \nThe Incident  \nOn 11 July 2025\, a fire involving a charging laptop inside a studio flat was extinguished after one sprinkler head was activated. Damage was confined to the item first ignited and light smoke damage occurred within the dwelling. No injuries were reported. \nSprinkler System  \nThis incident demonstrates that a correctly designed\, installed\, and maintained residential sprinkler system\, in line with applicable codes and standards\, can reduce the rate of heat and smoke production\, providing more time for occupants to leave safely or be assisted. \n\nBS93251:14\, Category 2 system\nWater supply Tank/Pump\, 30-minute duration\nSprinkler isolation valves for each floor\n\nConclusion \nThe outcome of this incident could have been so much different if sprinklers had not been fitted. Providing further evidence on the benefits of sprinklers supporting calls from the ²National Fire Chiefs Council and the fire sector urging the government to introduce further regulations for the installation of sprinklers in the built environment. \nWe acknowledge the recent government proposals requiring sprinklers to be installed \n\nIn all new care homes.\nReducing the threshold height for high rise residential sprinklers to 11m from 30m\n\nBut we are concerned there is still no requirement to install sprinklers in all \n\nHomes where vulnerable people live.\nBuildings housing vulnerable residents such sheltered accommodation\, hostels\n\nSources/further reading.  \n\n¹Previous incident December 2023\, fire involving combustibles inside a studio flat was contained\, controlled by the activation of 1 sprinkler head in the room of origin before the arrival of LFB\, limiting spread to the room of origin.\nSprinkler Saves Review 2024/25\nSprinkler Saves Spring Update No 8\n²NFCC Sprinkler Position Statement\n\nIf you want to make a difference working in the fire sector\, we need your assistance…… \nTo make sprinklers the norm and not the exception – we need the evidence. Encouraging FRS and those in the sprinkler community to promote\, collate\, report sprinkler activations to Sprinkler Saves UK which will help to create a central and comprehensive record of fire incidents where sprinklers played their role in containing/controlling or extinguishing the fire. \nIf you hear of a save report it using this link. \n  \n   
URL:https://www.sprinklersaves.co.uk/saves/london-studio-flat-sprinkler-save/
LOCATION:Greater London
CATEGORIES:Residential
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END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20250704
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20250705
DTSTAMP:20260603T011435
CREATED:20251209T052450Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260114T141149Z
UID:10000543-1751587200-1751673599@www.sprinklersaves.co.uk
SUMMARY:Birmingham student cluster flat kitchen fire
DESCRIPTION:Mark Serdetschniy\, West Midlands Fire Service\, said: \n“The sprinkler system played a crucial role in preventing the fire from becoming far more serious. By slowing the spread of flames\, it gave firefighters enough time to put out the blaze swiftly\, resulting in no injuries.” \nSummary  \nAt 20:00 on Wednesday\, 4 July 2025\, West Midlands Fire Service responded to a kitchen fire within a communal cluster flat located on the 12th floor of a 15-storey student accommodation building. The building’s sprinkler system was activated\, effectively containing and controlling the fire\, which originated from unattended cooking. Firefighters equipped with breathing apparatus extinguished the fire using CO₂ extinguishers. Fire damage was minimal; however\, water egress affected floors below the scene of the fire. No injuries were reported. \nA sprinkler activation is categorised as an event where one or more sprinkler heads have activated and contained\, controlled\, or\, in some cases\, extinguished a building fire. This incident provides further evidence of the effectiveness\, benefits of sprinklers as part of a comprehensive fire safety strategy. \nRaising awareness of how the destructive effects of fire can be mitigated\, and in most cases\, be prevented through the enhanced use of sprinklers\, and other forms of Automatic Water Suppresion (AWSS) Which save lives\, protect firefighters\, homes and businesses as part of an appropriate package of fire safety measures. \nEmbracing the call from the National Fire Chiefs Council (NFCC) who actively encourage fire services to collate\, promote case studies to Sprinkler Saves UK to promote the effectiveness of sprinklers in operating and controlling and in some cases extinguishing the fire. \nThe outcome of which will continue to promote a better understanding of the benefits of AFSS in the wider community\, fire safety sector in general as an effective and reliable fire protection measure as part of a package of fire safety measures protecting life and property from fire. \nProviding further evidence as part of our campaign driving change so AWSS are understood and accepted as the norm and not the exception\, the outcome of which will. \n\nInfluence policy makers to strengthen AWSS requirements\, England’s sprinkler fire safety regulations trail behind its neighbours in other jurisdictions where governments have set lower mandatory thresholds for the installation of sprinklers.\nEntice housing provider stakeholders and\, others to install sprinklers as part of a package of fire safety measures providing a further layer of protection from fire for our communities.\n\nStudent accommodation \nStudent accommodation Is undoubtedly a challenging environment from a fire safety perspective with their own individual challenges. The student’s lifestyle is typically associated with a reduced level of caution when it comes to appreciating risk. \nThe dangers of student accommodation were demonstrated following the fire in Bolton involving the premises known as the ‘Cube’ on 15 November 2019. The Cube incident report completed by Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service identifies\, the speed of which the fire took hold and the devastating impact it had on the building was shocking\, two residents were trapped by heat and smoke and required to be rescued by firefighters\, sprinklers were not fitted. \nLegislation \nRegulatory guidance for England includes a specific requirement to install sprinklers in purpose group 1a (residential block of flats) with a top floor height of 11 metres above ground level this guidance does not apply to student halls of residence regardless of height. \nEngland’s national building and fire safety regulations trail behind its neighbours\, governments in other UK jurisdictions who have set lower mandatory thresholds for the installation of sprinklers in new purpose-built student accommodation. \nFollowing the introduction of new fire regulations within Northern Ireland\, fire sprinklers are now required in within student accommodation with a storey more than 11m above ground level which will came into effect on 6 May 2025 \nIt is the view of the BAFSA and the 1NFCC that sprinklers should be installed in all new student accommodation regardless of height\, as well as existing buildings undergoing refurbishment. The Government should be looking to emulate the policies in the devolved governments to support unitary policy across nations by lowering or removing the acceptable height\, floor area\, or occupancy threshold dependent on building type. \nConclusion \nThis incident highlights the value of residential sprinkler systems in student accommodation. In this case\, the system: \n\nProvided support to firefighters reducing fire growth.\nControlling the fire in its early stages\, reducing contribution to fire spread made by combustible construction materials.\nProvided valuable time for the occupiers to self-evacuate from the dwelling to a place of safety.\nPrevented conflagration.\nAllowed prompt incident resolution and earlier release of resources\, supporting continued emergency response\n\nThis incident illustrates that sprinklers are integral to a thorough fire safety strategy\, protecting lives\, firefighters\, property\, and the environment. It also strengthens ongoing advocacy efforts by the NFCC and stakeholders within the fire sector for more rigorous government regulations regarding the installation of AWSS in the built environment. \nSources/further reading \n\nSprinkler Saves Review 2024/2025\nSprinkler Saves winter update\n1National Fire Chiefs Council (NFCC) sprinkler position statement\nThe Cube Incident report and key observations\nNational Fire Sprinkler Network newsletter\n\nEffective advocacy and policy lobbying require the collection of robust supporting evidence. If you have knowledge of a sprinkler incident that may contribute to this initiative\, please provide the pertinent details using the sprinkler activation reporting form available at www.sprinklersaves.co.uk. \n  \n       
URL:https://www.sprinklersaves.co.uk/saves/birmingham-student-cluster-flat-kitchen-fire/
LOCATION:Birmingham
CATEGORIES:Residential
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20250703
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20250704
DTSTAMP:20260603T011435
CREATED:20250731T152730Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250813T093621Z
UID:10000525-1751500800-1751587199@www.sprinklersaves.co.uk
SUMMARY:Staffordshire factory saved by sprinklers
DESCRIPTION:Head of Prevent\, Protect and Partnerships\, Ian Read\, said: “At Staffordshire Fire and Rescue Service\, we champion the use of automatic sprinklers. As shown in the incident at a factory on 3 July\, the fire was contained and extinguished by the installed water suppression system\, which are an invaluable resource for our crews. “We would encourage all businesses to consider the equipment they have installed to help reduce risk should the worst happen.” \nSummary  \nStaffordshire Fire & Rescue Service (SFRS) reported that a fire within a factory and was contained\, controlled and extinguished by the installed automatic water suppression system. (Sprinklers) \nA sprinkler activation is categorised as an event where one or more sprinkler heads have activated and contained\, controlled\, or\, in some cases\, extinguished a building fire. This incident provides additional data regarding the role and benefits of sprinklers as part of a broader fire safety approach. \nFor this incident\, the operation of the AWSS inside the factory led to the following outcomes. \n\nReduce the rate of production of heat and smoke limiting the fire’s growth\, containing and controlling and in this case extinguished the fire.\nThe response prevented a potentially prolonged incident that might have demanded significant resources from SFRS and affected routine operations.\nLimited fire development assisted firefighters in search and rescue efforts and reduced risk to those personnel.\nPreventing the total loss of the factory due to fire.\n\nThe Incident  \n\n3 July 2025\, SFRS despatched 3 fire appliances to a fire inside an open plan factory. Upon arrival the incident commander (IC) completed a dynamic risk assessment and determined that the fire involved a large industrial oven had been contained\, controlled and extinguished by the activation of three sprinkler heads.\nProviding further weight to the reliability and effectiveness of AWSS following the report conducted by ¹Optimal Economics\, and commissioned by the National Fire Chiefs Council\, National Fire Sprinkler Network into the performance\, reliability\, and effectiveness of sprinkler systems in controlling and extinguishing fires.\n\nConclusion \n\nThe fire was attributed to an electrical fault related to a large industrial oven. Firefighters wearing breathing apparatus were committed who confirmed the fire had been extinguished by the sprinkler system\, proceeded to ventilate the building\, isolate the sprinkler system. Five individuals required hospital treatment for smoke inhalation.\nAs a result\, what could have developed into a significant incident was resolved quickly and was only a minor inconvenience due to the presence of the sprinkler system\, despite there being no regulatory requirement for such systems in factories.\n\nFor comparison\, an unsprinklered carpet warehouse fire in Kidderminster in December 2021\, reported by the Business Sprinkler Alliance resulted in a different outcome. The business experienced substantial disruption and now faces uncertainty. Containment\, control\, and extinguishment of that fire required substantial resources from Hereford Fire and Rescue Service\, causing extensive disruption to local businesses and schools due to road closures. \nSources/further reading.  \n\nSprinkler Saves Review 2024/25\nSprinkler Saves Spring Update No 8\nStaffordshire Fire & Rescue press release\nBusiness Sprinkler Alliance\, Lutterworth Warehouse saves by sprinklers\n¹Efficiency and Effectiveness of sprinkler systems in the United Kingdom: An Analysis from Fire Service Data\n\nIf you want to make a difference working in the fire sector\, we need your assistance. \nTo make sprinklers the norm and not the exception – we need the evidence. Encouraging FRS and those in the sprinkler community to promote\, collate\, report sprinkler activations to Sprinkler Saves UK which will help to create a central and comprehensive record of fire incidents where sprinklers played their role in containing/controlling or extinguishing the fire. \nIf you hear of a save report it using this link. \n                 
URL:https://www.sprinklersaves.co.uk/saves/staffordshire-factory-saved-by-sprinklers/
LOCATION:Staffordshire
CATEGORIES:Industrial
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20250701T080000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20250831T170000
DTSTAMP:20260603T011435
CREATED:20251011T150344Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251031T083527Z
UID:10000534-1751356800-1756659600@www.sprinklersaves.co.uk
SUMMARY:Greater Manchester Sprinkler Activations July-August 2025
DESCRIPTION:Introduction \nGreater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service (GMFRS) provided primary fire data from the ¹incident recording system and additional sources for the specified period\, documenting cases where Automatic Water Suppression Systems (AWSS) were present\, having an impact within Greater Manchester. \n The review  \nThe incidents contained within this review provides additional evidence supporting the reliability and effectiveness of AWSS\, aligning with findings from the report conducted by ²Optimal Economics and commissioned by the National Fire Chiefs Council and National Fire Sprinkler Network on the performance of sprinkler systems in controlling and extinguishing fires. \n5 incidents reported for July-August 2025 \nOf the five reported sprinkler incidents reported\, three were extinguished\, one was contained and controlled\, and the remaining incident was classified as “other.” In the latter case\, the system did not activate because only fumes were released. \n \nInformation was provided allowing a full review to be published for one of the 3 incidents involving purpose-built block of flats providing further evidence on the benefits of retrofitting a life safety residential sprinkler system in high rise residential buildings supporting the calls from the NFCC and the fire sector urging government to introduce further regulations for the installation of retrofitting sprinklers in the built environment. \nIf it was not for the foresight of the Guinness Partnership\, one of England’s largest providers of affordable housing to retrofit residential sprinklers in all buildings exceeding 18 metres in height\, following the Grenfell tragedy\, the outcome of this incident could have been significantly different. \nThe incident  \n\nFire crews responded to a reported fire within a 15-storey building.\nFollowing the completion of a dynamic risk assessment by the incident commander.\nIt was established that the fire involved a flat on the eleventh floor.\nFirefighters were committed to extinguish the fire who established upon entry that the fire had been contained\, controlled and extinguished within the room of origin by the activation of 1 sprinkler head.\nUp to 5sqm fire damage was reported for within the room of origin.\nThe cause of the fire\, careless disposal of smoking materials.\nNo injuries were reported.\n\nThe benefits sprinklers \nFor this reported fire\, the benefits of retrofitting a residential sprinkler system within the dwellings of a single staircase purpose-built block of flats. The outcome of which \n\nRestricted the fire’s growth\, containing and controlling the fire to the room of origin.\nExtinguished the fire before the arrival of GMFRS\nPreventing a potential major protracted incident that could challenge FRS maintaining a business-as-usual routine service.\n\nOf the remaining two residential tall building fires\, the fire was extinguished within the room of origin by the activation of 1 sprinkler head. \nConclusion \nThese incidents illustrate that AWSS are integral to a thorough fire safety strategy\, protecting lives\, property\, and the environment. It also strengthens ongoing advocacy efforts by the National Fire Chiefs Council (NFCC) and stakeholders within the fire sector for more rigorous government regulations regarding the retrofitting of sprinklers in existing buildings. \nBAFSA welcomed the government’s November 2020 decision to lower the height threshold for mandatory sprinklers in purpose group 1a (residential blocks of flats) from 30 metres to 11 metres. Nevertheless\, concerns persist regarding the lack of requirements to retrofit existing residential buildings with sprinklers. \nIn alignment with the 4National Fire Chiefs Council (NFCC) sprinkler position statement\, The British Automatic Fire Sprinkler Association advocate for government action to mandate the retrofitting of sprinklers in high-rise residential buildings. Retrofitting should apply to all existing residential buildings over 18 metres in height\, or those with at least seven storeys served by a single staircase\, as well as all existing residential buildings exceeding 11 metres\, based on risk assessments. \nSources/further reading.  \n\n¹Incident recording system\, after an emergency fire call\, key incident details are entered daily into the IRS by the officer in charge.)\n²Efficiency and Effectiveness of sprinkler systems in the United Kingdom: An Analysis from Fire Service Data\n³Sprinkler Saves Review 2024/25\, This review showcases just how essential AWSS\, including sprinklers and watermist systems\, are in safeguarding our communities from the devastating effects of fire\n4National Fire Chiefs Council AWSS Position Statement \n\n  \n       
URL:https://www.sprinklersaves.co.uk/saves/greater-manchester-sprinkler-activations-july-august-2025/
LOCATION:Greater Manchester
CATEGORIES:Residential
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20250701
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20250702
DTSTAMP:20260603T011435
CREATED:20250720T092620Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250720T092620Z
UID:10000522-1751328000-1751414399@www.sprinklersaves.co.uk
SUMMARY:Doncaster tall building kitchen fire extinguished by sprinklers
DESCRIPTION:Roger Brason\, South Yorkshire Fire & Rescue’s sprinkler advocate: \n\n\n“We’ve championed the use of sprinklers\, particularly in high-rise buildings\, for quite some time\, so we’re delighted that all of the blocks in Doncaster now have them.” \n\n\n“These devices not only help protect life but help protect property too. In most cases\, they will extinguish a fire completely and prevent it from spreading any further. The fact that people living in high-rise buildings across Doncaster now have such a high level of fire protection really is excellent news.” \nOverview of the incident  \nThe decision by  St Ledger Homes of Doncaster working with both Doncaster Council and South Yorkshire Fire Rescue (SYFR) to improve fire safety arrangements installing sprinklers within this residential block of flats should be applauded following an accidental chip pan fire which was extinguished by the activation of the retrofitted sprinkler system. \nIt is reported heat generated from the fire\, activated 1 sidewall sprinkler head within the kitchen\, raising the alarm by transmitting a fire signal to the remote alarm receiving centre allowing the appropriate emergency response.The operation of the sprinkler system restricted the growth of the fire\, extinguishing the fire before the arrival of SYFR.  Minor fire damage was sustained to the adjacent kitchen cupboards\, worktop\, 1 person required to be assisted from the dwelling by firefighters with no injuries reported. \nDebunking the myth that residential sprinklers as an extinguishing media should not be used on fires involving chip pans. \n¹Optimal economics report \nProviding further weight to the reliability and effectiveness of sprinkler systems following the report conducted by Optimal Economics\, and commissioned by the National Fire Chiefs Council\, National Fire Sprinkler Network into the performance\, reliability\, and effectiveness of sprinkler systems in controlling and extinguishing fires. \nThe reports found that: \n\nSprinklers are 99% efficient in extinguishing or controlling a fire.\nSprinklers are 94% efficient in their ability to operate.\n\nThe provision of a sprinkler system does not neglect the need for other fire practical precautions or provisions where the person is at higher-than-average risk from fire\, unable to self-evacuate in the event of a fire. \nLegislation  \nAt present there is no statutory legislation for the retrofitting of sprinklers with purpose-built block of flats\, this incident demonstrates the benefits of installing sprinklers within tall buildings\, demonstrating that a correctly designed and installed sprinkler system can detect\, raise the alarm and control or for this incident extinguish the fire at an early stage of development. In addition to providing attending crews with confidence when attending tall building fires which are sprinkler protected compared to other buildings which are not sprinkler protected. \nSources/further reading.  \n\nSprinkler Saves Annual Review 2024/25\nSprinkler saves Spring Update No 8\n¹Efficiency and Effectiveness of sprinkler systems in the Uk\nFire Industry Association Article 2 January 2020\nBAFSA video chip pan demonstration\, click here to open chip pan fire\n\nIf you want to make a difference working in the fire sector\, we need your assistance…… \nTo make sprinklers the norm and not the exception – we need the evidence. Encouraging FRS and those in the sprinkler community to promote\, collate\, report sprinkler activations to Sprinkler Saves UK which will help to create a central and comprehensive record of fire incidents where sprinklers played their role in containing/controlling or extinguishing the fire. \nIf you hear of a save report it using this link. \n             
URL:https://www.sprinklersaves.co.uk/saves/doncaster-tall-building-kitchen-fire-extinguished-by-sprinklers/
LOCATION:Doncaster
CATEGORIES:Residential
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20250701
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20260101
DTSTAMP:20260603T011435
CREATED:20260114T141112Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260120T065647Z
UID:10000544-1751328000-1767225599@www.sprinklersaves.co.uk
SUMMARY:Sprinkler systems extinguish fires in extra-care living accommodation in Croydon and Abergavenny\, strengthening the argument for making them statutory.
DESCRIPTION:Background \nThe benefit of installing Automatic Water Suppression Systems (AWSS) protecting the most vulnerable residents of our communities was clearly demonstrated following reported dwelling kitchen fires by the London Fire Brigade and South Wales Fire and Rescue Service involving extra care living accommodation\, a form of specialised housing. \nFor both incidents the fire was contained\, controlled and extinguished by the operation of the building’s AWSS with no injuries reported. Demonstrating the effectiveness of AWSS in controlling fires at an early stage\, significantly reducing the risk to life\, limiting fire spread\, and minimising property damage\, preventing the fire from spreading further and enabled a swift\, safe resolution. \nSpecialised housing\, extra care housing schemes has seen demographic shifts\, with people living longer lives. This rise in life expectancy means more residents face mobility issues\, reduced sensory abilities\, and cognitive challenges\, which all heighten both the chances of fire and the risk to individuals during such emergencies. \nThe BAFSA welcomed the government’s announcement that\, starting in March 2025\, all newly built care homes must have sprinklers installed. However\, we are still concerned that this requirement does not extend to specialised housing\, where residents often face similar risks as those in care homes. Fire safety guidance is provided by the National Fire Chiefs Council for specialised housing\, advocating the use of AWSS\, but it’s not statutory. In England\, the regulations covering AWSS trail behind the rest of the UK\, In Scotland and Wales sprinklers are mandatory for new build specialised housing. \nThis concern was reiterated in the ¹Coroners report aimed at preventing future deaths\, which was sent to the then Rt Hon Michael Gove\, Secretary of State for Levelling Up\, Housing and Communities in March 2023. The report followed the investigation conducted by the coroner into the death of Mr Brian George Harefield aged 85\, who was overcome by smoke\, found unconscious in his flat\, and sadly lost his life. \nThe study\, analysis of ²national fire data\, an in-depth review of fire-related fatalities and severe casualties in England\, 2010/11 to 2018/19 referenced that while there is a lack of recent research on fatal fires\, the available studies consistently identified age\, the presence of an impairment such as physical disability\, smoking\, and alcohol use as key factors on the outcome of the fire\, as they will be less able to respond to a fire. \nThe report raised concerns regarding the lack of mandatory sprinkler systems and other fire-safety measures in extra care and retirement housing particularly for older people with reduced mobility. It acknowledges the government consultation undertaken about sprinklers in care homes\, but the scope of this consultation does not cover to specific risks to those in extra care facilities. \nIn the response from the Secretary of State for Levelling up\, Housing and Communities\, it was acknowledged more evidence is needed on the benefits of sprinklers and other fire protection measures in specialised housing such as extra care facilities. \nA research programme is underway to access whether sprinklers are more effective than alternatives such as improved fire detection alarms or compartmentation\, stage 1 of this research supported requiring sprinklers in all new care homes stage 2 will focus on specialised housing\, including extra care. \nThe findings for stage 2 of this 3research was published in December 2025. The study was considered inclusive\, reflecting a wide range of building types and the project’s complexity and scope. The report also made several recommendations for further research\, including a review of sprinkler system provisions in all types and heights of buildings\, especially within the specialised housing and care home sector \nThe incidents \n\nDecember 2025\, Abergavenny extra care living accommodation \n\nOn Thursday\, 18 December 2025\, crews from South Wales Fire and Rescue Service attended a fire at a residential retirement complex. On arrival\, it was confirmed that a small fire had occurred within the kitchen area of a flat. \nit was found that the fire had already been extinguished by the building’s automatic sprinkler system\, highlighting the benefits to the flat’s occupants\, other residents of the building\, and the responding emergency services. All residents were accounted for\, with no injuries reported \nSouth Wales Fire and Rescue Service\, Area Manager Mike Wyatt said; \n“This incident clearly demonstrates the effectiveness of fire sprinkler systems in controlling fires at an early stage\, significantly reducing the risk to life\, limiting fire spread\, and minimising property damage. In this case\, the sprinkler system prevented the fire from spreading further and enabled a swift\, safe resolution.” \n“South Wales Fire and Rescue Service continues to support the use of sprinklers\, particularly in residential areas and specialised housing\, as proven measures to enhance fire safety and protect vulnerable occupants.” \n\nJuly 2025\, Croydon extra care\, extra care living accommodation\n\nMore than ten years after Croydon Council retrofitted sprinkler systems across its six extra-care housing complexes\, a kitchen fire occurred originating from a cooker. The fire was effectively contained and extinguished by the activation of a single sprinkler head\, eliminating the need for further firefighting\, no injuries were reported. \nIn September 2015\, the Fire Industry Association documented an earlier event at Truscott House one of Croydon’s extra-care housing complexes\, where a kitchen fire caused by a toaster was successfully extinguished by the sprinkler system. The activation of the sprinklers prevented the fire from reaching the resident’s bedroom while he was asleep\, thus ensuring his safety. The decision by Croydon Council to install sprinklers in all their extra-care housing facilities proved decisive in limiting the impact of these incident. \n \nConclusion                                                                    \nThese collection of incidents reinforces why the BAFSA\, The National Fire Sprinkler Network and the National Fire Chiefs Council has long advocated for the use of sprinklers in specialised housing and why\, Government should follow the lead of Scotland and Wales expanding sprinkler requirements to include specialised housing. \nProviding further supporting evidence to under pin BAFSA’s advocacy\, turning operational evidence into persuasive tools for policy and parliamentary engagement\, and reinforcing the case for wider sprinkler inclusion within national building policy. \nIn comparison the fire that burnt down the Beechmere extra-care retirement village in Crewe in August 2019 housing 132 apartments for some of our most vulnerable members of our communities\, is a reminder on the danger of fires for this sector. No lives were lost but over 150 residents lost their homes. \nSprinklers were not fitted as it was not a statutory requirement under the building regulations. \nSources/further reading \n\nSprinkler saves review 2025/25\nSprinkler Saves winter review\nNFSN Newsletter\nFire Industry Association\, Care home fire sparks call for sprinkler systems\n¹Coroners report to prevent future deaths\n2An in-depth review of fire related fatalities and severe casualties in England\, 2010/11 to 2018/19\n3Research and analysis Fire Safety: Specialised housing and care homes\nNews on the block\, six years after Beechmere-The fire safety gap remains\, BSA Tom Roche BSA\n\nIf you want to make a difference working in the fire sector\, we need your assistance. \nTo make sprinklers the norm and not the exception – we need the evidence. Encouraging FRS and those in the sprinkler community to promote\, collate\, report sprinkler activations to Sprinkler Saves UK which will help to create a central and comprehensive record of fire incidents where sprinklers played their role in containing/controlling or extinguishing the fire. \nIf you hear of a save report it using this link. \n           
URL:https://www.sprinklersaves.co.uk/saves/sprinkler-systems-extinguish-fires-in-extra-care-living-accommodation-in-croydon-and-abergavenny-strengthening-the-argument-for-making-them-statutory/
CATEGORIES:Residential
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20250630
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20250701
DTSTAMP:20260603T011435
CREATED:20251028T081927Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251114T044416Z
UID:10000535-1751241600-1751327999@www.sprinklersaves.co.uk
SUMMARY:Dagenham Flat Kitchen Fire Sprinklers Save
DESCRIPTION:Summary \nTriangle Fire Systems Ltd reported an incident involving a fire in a residential block of flats. The life safety sprinkler system was activated and effectively extinguished a cooking-related fire within one of the dwellings. \nA sprinkler save is categorised as an event where one or more sprinkler heads have activated and contained\, controlled\, or\, in some cases\, extinguished a building fire. This incident provides further evidence of the effectiveness\, benefits of sprinklers as part of a comprehensive fire safety strategy for a building. \nProviding further weight to the reliability and effectiveness of sprinkler systems following the report conducted by ¹Optimal Economics and commissioned by the National Fire Chiefs Council (NFCC)\, National Fire Sprinkler Network into the performance\, reliability\, and effectiveness of sprinkler systems in controlling and extinguishing fires. \nRevealed that across all premises types: – \n\nSprinklers are 99% efficient in extinguishing or controlling a fire.\nSprinklers are 94% efficient in their ability to operate.\n\nThe incident  \n\nThe fire occurred in a sixth-floor flat of a nine-storey residential building.\n1 concealed sprinkler head activated extinguishing the fire.\nContaining\, controlling fire growth to the room of origin.\nMinor water\, smoke damage was reported within the flat\nThe premises emergency plan allowed Triangle Fire to be notified of the activation allowing the system to be recommissioned\n\nThe benefits sprinklers \nFor this reported fire\, the benefits of installing a residential sprinkler system within a residential purpose-built block of flats. The outcome of which \n\nRestricted the fire’s growth\, containing and controlling the fire to the room of origin.\nNo injuries were reported.\nPreventing conflagration that could challenge FRS maintaining a business-as-usual routine service.\n\nSources/further reading \n\nSprinkler Saves Review 2024/2025\nSprinkler saves autumn update\n¹Optimal economics report Efficiency and Effectiveness of sprinkler systems in the Uk: An analysis from fire service data\nTriangle Fire Systems Ltd\, Sprinkler Save\n\nIf you want to make a difference working in the fire sector\, we need your assistance. \nTo make sprinklers the norm and not the exception – we need the evidence. Encouraging FRS and those in the sprinkler community to promote\, collate\, report sprinkler activations to Sprinkler Saves UK which will help to create a central and comprehensive record of fire incidents where sprinklers played their role in containing/controlling or extinguishing the fire. \nIf you hear of a save report it using this link. \n  \n             
URL:https://www.sprinklersaves.co.uk/saves/dagenham-flat-kitchen-fire-sprinklers-save/
LOCATION:Greater London
CATEGORIES:Residential
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20250604
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20250605
DTSTAMP:20260603T011435
CREATED:20250715T114409Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250715T122110Z
UID:10000521-1748995200-1749081599@www.sprinklersaves.co.uk
SUMMARY:Bedfordshire Tall Building Bedroom Fire Saved By Retrofitted Sprinkler System
DESCRIPTION:Image credit BM Sprinklers/Triangle\nGroup Commander Mark Garrett\, responsible for fire safety at Bedfordshire Fire & Rescue Service (BFRS)\, said: “This incident shows exactly how sprinklers save lives. The system worked perfectly\, stopping the fire before it could spread. Our partnership with bpha helps keep residents safe. \nSummary  \nBFRS have reported that on Wednesday 4 June at 10:33pm fire crews were mobilised to a dwelling bedroom fire within a residential purpose-built block of flats\, caused by a lit cigarette extinguished by the operation of the premises’ retrofitted residential sprinkler system. \nA sprinkler activation is categorised as an event where one or more sprinkler heads have activated and contained\, controlled\, or\, in some cases\, extinguished a building fire. Each of these incidents provides evidence of the effectiveness of sprinklers as part of a comprehensive fire safety strategy. \nFor this reported fire\, the benefits of retrofitting a residential sprinkler system within the dwellings of a single staircase purpose-built block of flats of 12 floors. The outcome of which \n\nRestricted the fire’s growth\, containing and controlling the fire to the room of origin.\nExtinguished the fire before the arrival of BFRS.\nPreventing a potential major protracted incident that could strain the operational resilience of BFRS resources and challenge maintaining routine services.\n\nThe Incident  \nOn arrival the incident commander established that a bedroom fire caused by a lit cigarette had been contained\, controlled and extinguished following the activation of 1 sidewall sprinkler head before the arrival of BFRS. No injuries were reported\, the resident self-evacuated the flat following the actuation of the domestic smoke detector \nImage credit BM Sprinklers/Triangle\nImage 1                                                           Image 2 \n           \nImage 1\, Activated sidewall sprinkler head\, located 3m from the seat of the fire which contained\, controlled and extinguished the fire. \nImage 2\, Identifies that the seat of the fire was in the vicinity below the head rest involving bed linen/textiles with smoke staining visible on the wall from the plume of the fire. \nOnsite information allowed firefighters to interact with the building sprinkler system allowing the system to be isolated at the conclusion of the incident. Minor water escape was reported affecting adjacent properties which was dealt with by bpha contractors in a timely manner. \nbpha should be recognised for their fire safety review within their residential high-rise building portfolio allowing the retrofitting of sprinklers on a case-by-case basis. \nLegislation \nThe outcome of this incident could have been so much different if sprinklers had not been fitted. Providing further evidence supporting calls from the ¹National Fire Chiefs Council urging the government to introduce regulations mandating sprinklers in England and specifically to mandate the retrofitting of sprinklers in all existing residential buildings over 11 metres in height based on risk assessments. Currently\, there is no statutory legislation for the retrofitting of sprinklers within residential tall buildings. \nThis incident demonstrates the benefits of installing and retrofitting sprinklers in such buildings\, showing that a properly designed and installed sprinkler system to BS9251:21 can detect\, raise the alarm\, and control or extinguish a fire at an early stage. \nThe provision of a sprinkler system does not eliminate the need for other fire safety measures\, especially for individuals at higher-than-average risk from fire and those unable to self-evacuate in the event of a fire. \nSources/further reading.  \n\nSprinkler Saves Review 2024/25\nSprinkler Saves Spring Update No 8\n1NFCC Sprinkler Position Statement\nBedfordshire Fire & Rescue Service\n\nIf you want to make a difference working in the fire sector\, we need your assistance…… \nTo make sprinklers the norm and not the exception – we need the evidence. Encouraging FRS and those in the sprinkler community to promote\, collate\, report sprinkler activations to Sprinkler Saves UK which will help to create a central and comprehensive record of fire incidents where sprinklers played their role in containing/controlling or extinguishing the fire. \nIf you hear of a save report it using this link. \n        \n 
URL:https://www.sprinklersaves.co.uk/saves/bedfordshire-retrofitted-tall-building-bedroom-fire-saved-by-sprinkler-system/
LOCATION:Bedfordshire
CATEGORIES:Residential
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